Facilitating use of a financial transaction device in a cashless wagering system in a gaming system

ABSTRACT

Use of a financial transaction device of a cashless wagering system is facilitated in a gaming system. The financial transaction device, having at least an account identifier linking the financial transaction card to at least one financial account of at least one financial institution associated with the gaming network, is provided by an electronic gaming machine (EGM), a financial institution, and/or a gaming network, for depositing the financial amount into at least one financial account, performing a cashless wagering operation in the EGM, and/or using the financial transaction device for payment of goods and services by gaming and non-gaming venues. The financial transaction device is used for depositing the financial amount into at least one financial account of the at least one financial institution associated with the gaming network by one of the EGM and the ATM, cashless wagering in the EGM, and/or purchasing the goods and services.

COPYRIGHT NOTICE

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains or may contain material, which is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the photocopy reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure in exactly the form it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates in general to gaming devices and systems, and more particularly to facilitating use of a financial transaction device of a cashless wagering system in a gaming system.

2. Description of the Related Art

Games of chance have been enjoyed by people for many years and have undergone increased and widespread popularity in recent times. As with most forms of entertainment, some players enjoy playing a single favorite game, while others prefer playing a wide variety of games. In response to the diverse range of player preferences, gaming establishments commonly offer many types of electronic games. Many electronic gaming machines (EGMs), such as electronic gaming machines and video poker machines, have been a cornerstone of the gaming industry for several years. The EGMs are computer based and contain multiple external interfaces for connecting with external devices and mobile devices.

SUMMARY OF THE DESCRIBED EMBODIMENTS

A current challenge for gaming institutions, in view of increasingly popular use by players, and an increasing number of electronic gaming machines (EGM) and the like in gaming environments, is advantageously providing the EGMs, especially microprocessor-based gaming machines that store gaming programs for operating and using the EGM, with the flexibility and capabilities of communicating with external devices. As the gaming industry becomes more mobile it is likely that players will be using their various external devices (e.g., mobile devices such as cell phones and the like) in Casinos and other gaming venues and also desire to gain quicker access to winnings from the various games played. Also, there are many use cases for players, patrons, regulators, and/or operators to use an external application (e.g., a mobile digital device, digital media extender, a smart phone, an electronic tablet, a player mobile device ‘PMD’, a computer, and the like). As such, a need exists for facilitating use of a financial transaction device of a cashless wagering system in a gaming system.

To address these aforementioned needs, in one embodiment, by way of example only, methods, systems, and computer program products are provided for use of a financial transaction device of a cashless wagering system is facilitated in a gaming system. In one embodiment, by way of example only, the financial transaction device, having at least an account identifier linking the financial transaction device to at least one financial account of at least one financial institution, is provided (e.g., provided by an electronic gaming machine (EGM), a financial institution, and/or a gaming and/or non-gaming venue) for depositing the financial amount into at least one financial account, performing a cashless wagering operation in the EGM, and/or using the financial transaction device for payment of goods and services by gaming and non-gaming venues. Providing the financial card readies and/or allows the financial transaction device for use for depositing the financial amount into the at least one financial account, cashless wagering in the EGM, and/or payment of the goods and the services. The financial transaction device is used for depositing the financial amount into at least one financial account of the at least one financial institution associated with the gaming network by either the EGM and/or the ATM, performing a cashless wagering operation in the EGM, and/or purchasing the goods and services.

The foregoing summary has been provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter. The claimed subject matter is not limited to implementations that solve any or all disadvantages noted in the background.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order that the advantages of the invention will be readily understood, a more particular description of the invention briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments that are illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict embodiments of the invention and are not therefore to be considered to be limiting of its scope, the invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a gaming system environment with a gaming terminal data repository (GTDR) connected via one or more network interface(s) to a gaming network which, for example, may include gaming devices (e.g., gaming terminals), in which aspects of the present invention may be realized;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a EGM or gaming device suitable for use in the gaming system of FIG. 1, in which aspects of the present invention may be realized;

FIG. 3A is a block diagram illustrating an electronic configuration for use in the gaming device of FIG. 2, in which aspects of the present invention may be realized;

FIG. 3B is a block diagram illustrating player stations in communication with a central controller and a central display in communication with the central controller for use in the gaming device of FIG. 2, in which aspects of the present invention may be realized;

FIG. 4 is a schematic block diagram of a server-based gaming network in which aspects of the present invention may be realized;

FIG. 5 is a diagrammatic block diagram of the system in which aspects of the present invention may be realized;

FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a financial transaction device as a cash out slip from an electronic gaming machine (EGM) in which aspects of the present invention may be realized;

FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a financial transaction device as a coupon capable of being used with the electronic gaming machine (EGM) in which aspects of the present invention may be realized;

FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating of a financial transaction device as a jackpot winner cash out slip from the electronic gaming machine (EGM) of the present invention in which aspects of the present invention may be realized;

FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating menu screens capable of being displayed relating to use of the financial transaction device in which aspects of the present invention may be realized;

FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating menu screens capable of being displayed relating to use of the financial transaction device in which aspects of the present invention may be realized;

FIG. 11 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary method for facilitating use of a financial transaction device in which aspects of the present invention may be realized;

FIG. 12 is a flow chart illustrating an alternative exemplary method for facilitating use of a financial transaction device in which aspects of the present invention may be realized;

FIG. 13 is a block diagram illustrating an alternative gaming system which contains multiple EGMs in which aspects of the present invention may be realized;

FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating a service screen window including a game screen for play on an electronic gaming machine (EGM) in which aspects of the present invention may be realized;

FIG. 15 are block diagrams illustrating an exemplary service screen application and an external application displaying various electronic gaming machines (EGMs) options on a personal mobile device (PMD) and/or an electronic gaming machine (EGM) for use with the financial transaction device in which aspects of the present invention may be realized; and

FIG. 16 are block diagrams illustrating an alternative exemplary service screen application and an external application displaying various electronic gaming machines (EGMs) options on a personal mobile device (PMD) and/or an electronic gaming machine (EGM) for use with the financial transaction device in which aspects of the present invention may be realized.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In general, gaming machines require a player to place or make a wager to activate a primary or base game. The award may be based on the player obtaining a winning symbol or symbol combination and on the amount of the wager (e.g., the higher the wager, the higher the award). Symbols or symbol combinations that are less likely to occur usually provide higher awards. In such gaming machines, the amount of the wager made on the base game by the player may vary. For instance, a gaming machine may allow the player to wager a minimum number of credits, such as one credit (e.g., one penny, nickel, dime, quarter or dollar) up to a maximum number of credits, such as five credits. The player may make this wager a single time or multiple times in a single play of a primary game. For instance, a slot game may have one or more pay lines and the slot game may allow the player to make a wager on each pay line in a single play of the primary game. Slot games with 1, 3, 5, 9, 15 and 25 lines may be provided. Thus, a gaming device, such as a slot game, may allow players to make wagers of substantially different amounts on each play of the primary or base game ranging, for example, from one credit up to 125 credits (e.g., five credits on each of 25 separate pay lines). This is also true for other wagering games, such as video draw poker, where players can wager one or more credits on each hand and where multiple hands can be played simultaneously. Different players play at substantially different wagering amounts or levels and at substantially different rates of play.

Secondary or bonus games may also be provided in the gaming machines. The secondary or bonus games may provide an additional award to the player. Secondary or bonus games may not require an additional wager by the player to be activated. Secondary or bonus games may be activated or triggered upon an occurrence of a designated triggering symbol or triggering symbol combination in the primary or base game. For instance, a bonus symbol occurring on the pay line on the third reel of a three-reel EGM may trigger the secondary bonus game. When a secondary or bonus game is triggered, the gaming machines may indicate this to the player through one or more visual and/or audio output devices, such as the reels, lights, display units, speakers, video screens, etc. Part of the enjoyment and excitement of playing certain gaming machines is the occurrence of the secondary or bonus game (even before the player knows how much the bonus award will be). In other words, obtaining a bonus award is part of the enjoyment and excitement for players.

Progressive awards may also be provided in gaming machines. A progressive award may be an award amount that includes an initial amount funded by a casino and an additional amount funded through a portion of each wager made on the progressive gaming machine. For example, 1% to 5% of each wager placed on the primary game of the gaming machine associated with the progressive award may be allocated to the progressive award or progressive award fund. The progressive award grows in value as more players play the gaming machine, and thus, portions of these players' wagers are allocated to the progressive award. When a player obtains a winning symbol or symbol combination, which results in the progressive award, the accumulated progressive award is provided to the player. After the progressive award is provided to the player, the amount of the next progressive award may be reset to an initial value, a predetermined value, or randomly generated value, and a portion of each subsequent wager on a gaming machine associated with the progressive is allocated to the next progressive award as described above.

A progressive award may be associated with a single gaming machine or multiple gaming machines which each contribute portions of the progressive award. The multiple gaming machines may be in the same bank of machines, in the same casino or gaming establishment (usually through a local area network (“LAN”)) or in two or more different casinos or gaming establishments (usually through a wide area network (“WAN”)). Such progressive awards are sometimes called local area progressive (“LAP”) and wide area progressive (“WAP”), respectively. Progressive awards may increment through communication between a progressive controller and one or more gaming machines. The gaming machines associated with the progressive award transfer coin-in information to a progressive controller. From this information, the progressive controller calculates how much to increment the progressive award based on a set increment rate and then increments the progressive award accordingly. The gaming machines may provide the player a choice between different wager levels prior to the commencement of a primary game. The different wager levels enable the player to win different progressive awards. The gaming devices provide a progressive jackpot where the value of the jackpot may increase by a particular amount for every game played. Thus, when multiple gaming devices are linked together to form one large progressive jackpot, the jackpot grows more quickly because multiple players are contributing to the jackpot at the same time.

In one embodiment, there may be one or more various types of EGM machines, each having a variety of gaming themes, on any casino floor (and/or other gaming venue) using the above described gaming systems. The EGMs may use the various gaming award systems, jackpots, progressive jackpots, and/or other type of gaming systems and awards. As mentioned above, users of the various gaming devices (e.g., an EGM) have a general interest in, and may expend resources trying to identify, which of these various and preferred EGMs are paying out the largest and most frequent awards and/or progressive jackpots. As such, each of the EGMs may provide in real time, to a user, one or more of the user's favorite and/or preferred EGMs, and/or a list of EGM devices available and/or unavailable in the gaming venue, in order to play one or more of the favorite and/or preferred EGMs (e.g., the EGM labeled as “Wheel of Fortune®”).

Moreover, in one embodiment, the EGMs provide for a cashless wagering gaming environment. For example, in one embodiment, a cashless wagering system is a method of wagering and accounting in which the validity and value of a wagering instrument or wagering credits are determined, monitored, and retained by a computer (e.g., a computer associated with an EGM and/or the EGM itself) that may be operated and maintained by a licensee. Under this system a record is maintained of each transaction involving the wagering instrument or wagering credits, exclusive of the game or gaming device on which wagers are being made. In one embodiment, the cashless wagering gaming system may facilitate electronic transfers of money directly to and/or from a game or gaming device (e.g., the EGM). For example, in one embodiment, by way of example only, the EGM may be activated without any coins being inserted into the EGM. The EGMs of the present invention may include an optical paper currency reader and/or financial transaction device reader that is capable of recognizing and validating paper currency and/or credit from a card like device and provide the player with the credit corresponding to the value of the currency and/or credit type card like device. The EGM may include at least one type of financial transaction device reader (e.g., a bar code reader, a hologram identifier, a biometric reader, magnetic strip reader, a scanner, and the like) that may read, identify, and validate a financial transaction device (e.g., which may be a ticket-in/ticket-out (TITO) system, a pre-paid card device, a players club card, an identification card, a financial account deposit device, pre-printed free play coupons, lottery tickets, and/or printed cash out slips previously printed and/or provided by the gaming venue with a bar code representing the value of the financial transaction device (e.g., a coupon or cash out slip). In one embodiment, the financial transaction device has at least one a bar code, a magnetic strip, a financial amount, and/or an account identifier, and the financial transaction device may be provided by the EGM, at least one financial institution, a gaming venue, and/or a non-gaming venue. The EGM may also include a printer that prints and dispenses the financial transaction device (e.g., the cash out slips having the value of the cash out slip represented by a bar code) and/or a device for creating and/or generating a plastic card like device as the financial transaction device. A Central Processing Unit (CPU) associated with the EGM may control the printer, reader, creator/generator, financial transaction device reader, and/or a financial transaction device reader on an automated teller machine (ATM).

Each individual EGM may collect the EGM data and/or the financial transaction device data, such as the codes from the bar codes and the output of the paper currency reader and formats it and then transmits it to the CPU. The CPU may be located in a remote environment in a gaming network of the gaming venue (e.g., a secured office at the gaming venue). The financial transaction device (e.g., plastic cards, printed cash out slips, coupons etc.) may be accepted by an EGM in order to obtain credit to play the EGM and/or may be inserted and/or scanned into a separate device at a change station to obtain actual currency. The bar code, the magnetic strip, the financial amount, and/or the account identifier representing the value of the financial transaction device (e.g., a free play coupon and/or cash out slip) may be augmented by a unique control number randomly generated by the EGM and/or CPU and/or a unique number associated with a player via a player's profile associated with the financial transaction device, the gaming venue, and/or financial institution. When the financial transaction device (e.g., the players card, the coupon or cash out slip) is put into the financial transaction device reader, the EGM, via a processing device, verifies the validity of the individual financial transaction devices (e.g., coupons and cash out slips) by verifying the unique control number, the bar code, the magnetic strip, the hologram, the financial amount, and/or the account identifier representing the value of the financial transaction device. Additionally, control numbers for the financial transaction device (e.g., the free play coupons) may be generated externally and/or internally to the gaming and non-gaming venues, and/or the various financial institutions and then entered into the EGM as valid codes.

Given the flexibility of a cashless wagering system for the EGM, there is a greater need for using the financial transaction device beyond mere cashless wagering. For example, a need exists for allowing a gaming venue to partner with a financial institution to enable the financial transaction device to be deposited into an automated teller machine (ATM). In one embodiment, an ATM, which may be associated with the gaming and/or non-gaming venues, is provided for receiving a financial transaction device for depositing the amount on the financial transaction device into a players financial account. In one embodiment, an ATM, which may be associated with the gaming and/or non-gaming venues, is fitted with a financial transaction device reader (e.g., a TITO reader, bar code reader, a magnetic strip reader and the like) for reading and depositing the financial amount on the financial transaction device into the ATM. For example, when a player, using one of the EGMs, performs a cash out (“cashes out”) operation, the financial transaction device (e.g., a ticket printed from the EGM, the players club card, debit/credit card device, etc.), having the new and/or an updated financial amount loaded and stored thereon from the EGM, and is then inserted into the ATM, the financial amount on the financial transaction device is deposited into the ATM (e.g., similar to the process the ATM uses to accept currency). In one embodiment, various operational protocols may be used by the EGM and/or by the ATM based on one or more partnership agreements between the gaming venue and the financial institution. For example, both the gaming venue and the financial institutions may charge service fees thereby sharing in the revenues collected from financial institutions using the financial transaction device for depositing the financial amount into the ATM, and/or purchasing goods/services at a gaming and/or non-gaming venue. Moreover, players experience increased convenience by being able to deposit the cashed out values from the EGM directly into their respective bank accounts using the financial transaction device, and such flexibility for depositing the financial amount into the ATM, performing additional cashless wagering, and/or purchasing goods and/or services, increases players satisfaction for gaining access to the financial amounts on the financial transaction device and reduces demand on gaming venue operations staff overhead.

In one embodiment, the financial transaction device may also be used for purchasing the goods and services at both gaming and non-gaming venues. For example, in one embodiment, the financial transaction device may be used for purchasing lottery tickets, scratchers games, and/or keno tickets, buffet tickets, travel accommodations, events, food/beverages, and/or a variety of other types of goods and services. In one embodiment, the financial transaction device (e.g., a plastic card, coupon, a TITO ticket, etc.) may be used at a lottery kiosk to purchase a lottery ticket. The financial transaction device may also be used by various non-gaming vendors (e.g., hotels, restaurants, stores, event locations, concert venues, rental locations, various service(s) providers etc.) for purchasing the goods and services offered for sale and/or purchase.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides various methods, systems, and computer program products for facilitating use of a financial transaction device in a cashless wagering system in a gaming system/venue. In one embodiment, by way of example only, the financial transaction device, has at least an account identifier linking the financial transaction device to at least one financial account of at least one financial institution associated with the gaming network, is provided (e.g., provided by an electronic gaming machine (EGM), a financial institution, and/or a gaming and/or non-gaming venue) for depositing the financial amount into at least one financial account, performing a cashless wagering operation in the EGM, and/or using the financial transaction device for payment of goods and services by gaming and non-gaming venues. Providing the financial card readies and/or allows the financial transaction device for use for depositing the financial amount into the at least one financial account, perform cashless wagering in the EGM, and/or use for payment of goods and services. The financial transaction device may be used for depositing the financial amount into at least one financial account of at least one financial institution associated with the gaming and/or non-gaming venue into the EGM and/or the ATM, performing a cashless wagering operation in the EGM, and/or purchasing the goods and services.

In one embodiment, a financial institution (e.g., a bank, a credit union, and the like) and/or gaming venue may provide the financial transaction device. For example, in one embodiment, the player may go to a financial institution and acquire and/or update a debit card, credit card, and/or other similar type of specialized financial transaction device for use in a gaming and/or non-gaming environment. Previous agreements and/or protocols may be entered into between a gaming venue, non-gaming venues, and/or the financial institutions for using the financial transaction device. In one embodiment, by way of example only, the financial institution (e.g., a bank, a credit union, and the like) and/or the gaming venue may provide on the financial transaction device a bar code, an image, a magnetic strip, players account information for one or more gaming venues, an account identifier linking at least one financial account to the financial institution and/or gaming venue, a hologram, and/or other type of secured or unique device, image, code, number, and/or data. In one embodiment, the financial institution (e.g., a bank, a credit union, and the like) and/or the gaming venue activates the financial transaction device for performing cashless wagering in one or more gaming venues, purchasing goods/services at both gaming and non-gaming venues, and for depositing any financial amount on the financial transaction device into an ATM. In one embodiment, a credit limit may be allowed and/or a pre-paid amount may be uploaded onto the financial transaction device (e.g., the financial institution may allow for a $1000 U.S. dollar credit limit available for use). It should be noted that a variety of types of financial transaction devices may be used according to need, technology, and/or gaming venue requirements. For example, the financial transaction device, provided by the financial institution is used in an EGM and has a credit limit of $1000. The player enjoys several gaming options and is awarded a jackpot of $1000. The financial transaction device is updated to show the $1000 jackpot winnings including the $1000 credit, which is still available. In one embodiment, the player may perform a cash out operation where the $1000 jackpot credit is uploaded and stored onto the financial transaction device, provided by the financial institution. In one embodiment, the player may use the financial transaction device, provided by the financial institution, with the newly uploaded jackpot amount, is then used in the same and/or an alternative EGM. In one embodiment, the player may use the financial transaction device, provided by the financial institution, to purchase goods/services at a gaming and/or non-gaming venue, such as a restaurant, a hotel, an event, and/or travel, and the like. In one embodiment, the player may use the financial transaction device, provided by the financial institution, to deposit the financial amount into the ATM. Moreover, there may be legacy ATM systems, not equipped to recognize a plastic card like device acting as the financial transaction device, provided by the financial institution, and require an actual paper ticket printout, similar to those provided in the TITO system, to be used as the deposit slip for depositing the financial amount into the ATM. Thus, the player may have the TITO system print out a ticket/cash out slip with all and/or only a portion of the amount of financial amount of money from the financial transaction device, provided by the financial institution, and/or all and/or only a portion of the amount of financial amount of money from the EGM. For example, at the time of the cash out operation, the player may elect to have $500 be stored and/or uploaded onto the financial transaction device (e.g., a plastic card), provided by the financial institution, and/or the remaining $500 printed out onto a paper ticket. The player may then use the $500 on the financial transaction device, provided by the financial institution, in one or more gaming and/or non-gaming venues, while depositing the printed cash out ticket into an ATM. The printed cash out ticket may contain the exact same information, such as the bar code, the magnetic strip, image, the players account information for one or more gaming venues, the account identifier linking at least one financial account to the financial institution and/or gaming venue, the hologram, and/or other type of secured data and the like, on the cash out slip for depositing into the ATM. In this way, the ATM is then able to receive the deposited ticket and deposit the amount of money into the player's financial account of one or more financial institutions (e.g., the player may even deposit the ticket into a separate financial institution using the tickets as compared to depositing the financial amount into the financial institution that provided the debit/credit card type financial transaction device). In one embodiment, the player may even use the printed cash out ticket to purchase goods/services at a non-gaming venue, such as a restaurant, an event, and/or travel, and the like, and/or perform additional cashless gaming, in the event the gaming and/or non-gaming venues recognize only paper/ticket type financial transaction devices (e.g., legacy EGMs do no recognize plastic card type financial transaction devices). In this way, greater flexibility is provided to a player for gaining immediate access to and/or use any and all financial amounts related to the gaming environments.

Turning now to FIG. 1, a block diagram illustrating a gaming system environment 100 is shown. Environment 100 includes a Gaming Terminal Data Repository (GTDR) connected via one or more network interface(s) to a gaming network which, for example, may include gaming devices (e.g., gaming terminals) and/or other devices, in which aspects of the present invention may be realized. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the gaming environment 100 may comprise a gaming system/environment 122 located in a physical environment (not shown). It will be appreciated that the communications links between the various components may be separate and distinct or may be commonly used. It will also be appreciated that one or more of the functions or applications described above may be consolidated, such as at a common server or host. Further, other components for implementing other functionality may be provided. For example, a variety of computing devices, such as user stations, may be connected to the various systems. Printers and other peripheral devices may also be connected to each network or system. A gaming system/environment 122 may be located at least partially in one or more physical gaming environments, such as a casino, restaurant, and/or convenience store. For example, the casino may include publicly accessible game areas where certain of the gaming system devices 124, such as gaming machines 125 and table games 127 are located, as well as secure areas where the servers and other components are located.

In one embodiment, the physical environment includes at least a portion of a physical structure, such as casino, housing one or more components of the gaming system/environment 122. The gaming system/environment 122 includes one or more gaming system devices 124 or components. The gaming system devices 124 may include gaming machines 125, such as those known as video or electronic gaming machines. The devices 124 may also include “table” games 127 such as Blackjack and Roulette. The gaming devices 124 may also include components or devices such as player tracking card readers 129, coin counters and other gaming devices functionality options, which devices or components may be linked or associated with other devices. The devices or components may also comprise computers or servers and communication equipment, cashier and accounting workstations and a wide variety of other elements.

In one embodiment, the gaming system/environment 122 may include a variety of sub-systems. These sub-systems may be partially or fully independent of one another or may be related. In one embodiment, each system may be included or be part of a network. In one embodiment, the gaming system/environment 122 may include a game presentation/operation system, which includes at least one game server 126. The game server 126 may comprise a computing device including a processor and a memory. The game server 126 may be adapted to perform a variety of functions. This functionality may be implemented by software and/or hardware of the server 126. In one embodiment, the game server 126 may be arranged to provide information or instructions to the one or more gaming devices 124 or individual gaming system components. The information may comprise game code and control data. In one embodiment, the game server 126 may also be arranged to accept information from the gaming devices 124 or components. For example, the game sever 126 may accept information regarding the status of operation of a particular gaming system device 124 (such as “normal” or “malfunction”).

In one embodiment, the game server 126 is part of a network, which includes a communication link between the game server 126 and selected gaming system device(s) 124 and/or other component(s) with which communication is desired. A communication interface may be associated with the game server 126 and each device or component for facilitating the communication. The communication interfaces may have a variety of architectures and utilize a variety of protocols such as IEEE-1394 (FireWire™) or Ethernet in the case where the communication link is a wired link, or a wireless link utilizing a wireless protocol such as WIFI, Bluetooth™, Radio Frequency (RF), Infrared, etc. The communication links may transmit electrical, electromagnetic or optical signals, which carry digital data streams, or analog signals representing various types of information. In one embodiment, such as when the gaming device 124 comprises a gaming machine 125, the device 124 may include a master gaming controller, which controls the functions of game operation. The communication interface may be associated with the master gaming controller, permitting data to be transmitted between the game server 126 and the master gaming controller.

In one embodiment, the gaming system/environment 122 may include a player tracking system, which includes at least one player-tracking server 128. The player-tracking server 128 may also comprise a computing device including a processor and a memory. The player-tracking server 128 may be adapted to perform player-tracking functions. For example, the player-tracking server 128 may store information regarding the identities of players and information regarding the game play of those players. This information may include time of play, coin in/coin out or other monetary transaction data, and in an arrangement where players are awarded points based on play, a player's point total. Once again, the player tracking system includes a network comprising a communication link provided between the player tracking server 128 and one or more of the gaming devices 124 having a player tracking function or other components of the gaming system/environment 122 associated with the system. In one embodiment, such as where the gaming device 124 comprises a gaming machine, the device may include a management interface board, which controls a card reader. The management interface board may be arranged to receive data from the master gaming controller of the gaming system device 124. A communication interface is associated with the management interface board, permitting data to be transmitted between the player tracking server 128 and the management interface board.

In the case of table games, a card reader 129 may be associated with the table (e.g., the card reader located on or near the table game). Players may utilize the card reader to identify themselves. Information regarding play of the table game may be input through an input device by a dealer, coin counter or the like, and this information may be transmitted to the player tracking server 128.

In one embodiment, the gaming system/environment 122 may include an accounting system, which includes at least one accounting server 130. The accounting server 130 may comprise a computing device including a processor and a memory. The accounting server 130 is preferably adapted to perform financial related functions, such as track financial transactions such as bets and payouts, and perform reconciliations with monies collected from the gaming system devices 124, such as gaming machines 125, tables games 127. The accounting server 30 may be associated with a wide variety of devices, including individual gaming system devices 124 and other servers. Once again, a communication link may be provided between the accounting server 130 and each device with which communications is desired.

In one embodiment, the gaming system/environment 122 may include a progressive award system, which includes at least one progressive server 132. The progressive sever 132 may comprise a computing device including a processor and a memory. The progressive server 132 may be designed to generate progressive award information. In one arrangement, the progressive server 132 may obtain information regarding amounts bet at specific gaming system devices 124, such as gaming machines 125 or table games 127. Utilizing this information, a progressive jackpot award amount may be generated and updated using a specified protocol. The information may be transmitted to one or more displays 134 associated with participating devices 124. Once again, a communication link is preferably provided between the progressive server 132 and each device with which communications is desired. For example, a link may be provided between the progressive server 132 and accounting server 130 for providing payout information to the accounting server 130. The accounting server 130 also reads the paid amounts from the electronic gaming machines 125 as well and makes sure the paid amounts match what the progressive server claimed the paid amounts should have been. If the paid amounts don't match, then the accounting server 130 may raise a flag for further investigation by casino staff or regulators.

A physical and/or virtual information host 136 is associated with or comprises a portion of the gaming system/environment 122. In one embodiment, the host 136 comprises a computing device, which includes a processor, memory and a display. The virtual information host 136 may be one or more devices separate from devices performing other functions of the system/environment 122, or may be integrated with existing devices. The virtual information host 136 may be designed and adapted to perform functions relating to acquiring, managing, rendering, generating and/or displaying real-time and/or non real-time casino gaming system or “gaming environment” graphical information and information regarding one or more components of the gaming system or environment. Such functionality may also include the generation of at least one graphical user interface on at least one mobile device (e.g., 131), which is configured or designed to graphically display information (e.g., real-time casino information) relating to selected aspects of casino activity. Also, different graphical user interfaces may be displayed on an external application, such as on an application of a computer, smart phone, and/or on any type of mobile device 131. In one embodiment, bi-directional communication channels 121 are provided for direct, two-way communication between the host 136 and at least one game server 126 and at least one player-tracking server 128, and/or any other device with which communications is desired.

As illustrated in the example of FIG. 1, gaming system/environment 122 may also include one or more mobile devices 131 configured or designed to communicate, via one or more wireless links 111, with various components of the gaming environment 100 such as, for example: information systems (e.g., virtual information host 136); player tracking systems; accounting systems; employee management systems; location positioning systems (e.g., GPS system 133); game servers; surveillance systems; security systems; communications systems; gaming systems (e.g., gaming machines 125, game table devices 127, other mobile devices 125, etc.); etc.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of one embodiment 210 of a slot machine, EGM, or gaming device suitable for use in the previously depicted system of FIG. 1, in which aspects of the present invention may be realized. FIG. 2 represents a base gaming device 210 that can be employed in the shared display system or the gaming system of the present invention is illustrated as gaming device 210. FIG. 2 illustrates features common to each of the gaming devices. In one embodiment, gaming device 210 has a support structure, housing or cabinet, which provides support for a plurality of displays, inputs, controls and other features of a conventional gaming machine. In the illustrated embodiment, the player plays gaming device 210 while sitting, however, the gaming device is alternatively configured so that a player can operate it while standing or sitting. The illustrated gaming device 210 is positioned on the floor but can be positioned alternatively (i) on a base or stand, (ii) as a pub-style table-top game (e.g., where the participant gaming devices are located remotely from the shared wheel as discussed below), (iii) as a stand-alone gaming device on the floor of a casino with other stand-alone gaming devices, which the player operates while standing or sitting (e.g., where the participant gaming devices are located remotely from the shared wheel as discussed below), or (iv) in any other suitable manner. The gaming device 210 can be constructed with varying cabinet and display configurations. Also, referring to an embodiment for the electronic configuration of gaming device 210, each gaming device may include the components described below in FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B.

In one embodiment, each gaming device 210 randomly generates awards and/or other game outcomes based on probability data. That is, each award or other game outcome is associated with a probability and each gaming device generates the award or other game outcome to be provided to the player based on the associated probabilities. Since each gaming device 210 generates outcomes randomly or based upon a probability calculation, there is no certainty that the gaming device 210 will provide the player with any specific award or other game outcome.

In another embodiment, as discussed in more detail below, each gaming device 210 employs a predetermined or finite set or pool of awards, progressive awards, prizes or other game outcomes. As each award or other game outcome is provided to the player, the gaming device 210 removes the provided award or other game outcome from the predetermined set or pool. Once removed from the set or pool, the specific provided award or other game outcome cannot be provided to the player again. The gaming device 210 provides players with all of the available awards or other game outcomes over the course of the play cycle and guarantees a designated amount of actual wins and losses.

As seen in FIG. 2, the gaming device 210 includes a credit display 220 that displays a player's current number of credits, cash, account balance or the equivalent. In one embodiment, gaming device 210 includes a bet display 222 that displays a player's amount wagered. As illustrated in FIG. 3A, in one embodiment, each gaming device 210 includes at least one payment acceptor 334 (FIG. 3A) that communicates with processor 322 (FIG. 3A).

As seen in FIG. 2, the payment acceptor 334 (FIG. 3A) in one embodiment includes a coin slot 226, where the player inserts coins or tokens, and a ticket, note or bill acceptor 228, where the player inserts a bar-coded ticket, note, or cash. In one embodiment, a player-tracking card, credit card, debit card or data card reader/validator 232 is also provided for accepting any of those or other types of cards.

In one embodiment, a player inserts an identification card into card reader 232 of gaming device 210. The identification card can be a smart card having a programmed microchip or a magnetic strip coded with a player's identification, credit totals and other relevant information. In one embodiment, money may be transferred to gaming device 10 through an electronic fund transfer and card reader 232 using the player's credit, debit or smart card. When a player funds gaming device 210, processor 322 (FIG. 3A) determines the amount of funds entered and the corresponding amount is shown on the credit or other suitable display as described above. In one embodiment, after appropriate funding of gaming device 210, the player presses a play button 234 or pull arm (not illustrated) to start any primary game or sequence of events. In one embodiment, upon appropriate funding, gaming device 210 begins game play automatically. In another embodiment, the player needs to actuate or activate one of the play buttons to initiate play of gaming device 210.

As shown in FIG. 2, a bet one button 236 is provided. The player places a bet by pushing bet one button 236. The player increases the player's wager by one credit each time the player pushes bet one button 236. When the player pushes the bet one button 236, the number of credits shown in the credit display 220 decreases by one, and the number of credits shown in the bet display 222 increases by one. A max bet button (not shown) can also be provided, which enables the player to bet the maximum wager (e.g., max lines and max wager per line). Gaming device 210 may include other suitable wager buttons 230, such as a max bet button, a repeat bet button, one or more select paylines buttons and one or more select wager per payline buttons.

In one embodiment, a cash out button 238 is provided. The player presses cash out button 238 and cashes out to receive a cash payment or other suitable form of payment corresponding to the number of remaining credits. The player can receive coins or tokens in a coin payout tray 240 or a ticket or credit slip, which are redeemable by a cashier or funded to the player's electronically recordable identification card. Each gaming device 210 also includes one or a plurality of communication ports for enabling communication of a processor with one or more external peripherals, such as external video sources, expansion buses, expansion games or other displays, an SCSI port or a key pad.

In one embodiment of FIG. 2, in combination with in FIG. 3A, a touch-screen 352 (FIG. 3A) is provided in one embodiment and operates with a touch-screen controller 354, processor 322 (FIG. 3A) and display device 326, 328 (FIG. 3A). Touch-screen 352 (FIG. 3A) and the touch-screen controller 354 are also connected to a video controller 356. The player touches touch-screen 352 at appropriate places to input decisions and signals into processor 322 of gaming device 210. Also, each gaming device 210 may include a sound generating device controlled by one or more sounds cards 258, which function in conjunction with processor 322 (FIG. 3A). In one embodiment, the sound generating device includes at least one speaker 250 or other sound generating hardware and/or software for generating sounds, such as playing music for the primary and/or secondary game or for other modes of the gaming device, such as an attract mode. In one embodiment, each gaming device 210 provides dynamic sounds coupled with attractive multimedia images displayed on display device 216 to provide an audio-visual representation or to otherwise display full-motion video with sound to attract players to gaming device 210. During idle periods, the gaming device 210 displays a sequence of audio and/or visual attraction messages to attract potential players to gaming device 210. The videos in one embodiment are customized to provide information concerning the shared display of the present invention as discussed below.

In one embodiment, gaming device 210 includes a camera in communication with a processor, which is positioned to acquire an image of a player playing gaming device 10 and/or the surrounding area of gaming device 10. In one embodiment, the camera may be configured to selectively acquire still or moving (e.g., video) images and may be configured to acquire the images in either an analog, digital or other suitable format. Display device 216 may be configured to display the image acquired by the camera as well as display the visible manifestation of the game in split screen or picture-in-picture fashion. For example, the camera may acquire an image of the player and that image can be incorporated into the primary and/or secondary game as a game image, symbol or indicia.

In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 2, a base or primary game includes a slot game with one or more paylines 252. Paylines 252 may be horizontal, vertical, circular, diagonal, angled or any combination thereof. For a slot game, gaming device 210 displays at least one reel and preferably a plurality of reels 254, such as three to five reels, in either electromechanical form with mechanical rotating reels or in video form with simulated reels and movement thereof. Each reel 254 displays a plurality of indicia such as bells, hearts, fruits, numbers, letters, bars or other images, which preferably correspond to a theme associated with the gaming device. With a slot game, gaming device 10 awards prizes when reels 254 stop spinning and display a winning or paying symbol or combination of symbols on an active payline 252.

In one embodiment, each gaming device 210 includes indicators 260. Indicators 260 reside on the top of each gaming device 10 and point to or indicate one of the awards or outcomes on top of shared display (not shown) when the shared display stops spinning to reveal randomly or otherwise generated results or outcomes. Indicators 260 may illuminate differently at different times or states for the gaming device 210. The illumination of the indicator 260 in one embodiment depends upon whether the gaming device 210 is playing a base game, is in a state in which the player is eligible to play the shared display bonus, is in a state in which the player has committed to play the shared display bonus or is in a state in which the player has declined to play a particular upcoming shared display bonus, as well as other states discussed below.

FIG. 3A is a block diagram illustrating an electronic configuration for use in the gaming device of FIG. 2, here again in which aspects of the present invention may be realized. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3A the player station may include at least one processor 322, such as a microprocessor, a microcontroller-based platform, a suitable integrated circuit or one or more ASICs. The processor 322 is in communication with or operable to access or to exchange signals with at least one data storage or memory device 324. In one embodiment, the processor 322 and the memory device 324 reside within the cabinet of the player station. The memory device 324 stores program code and instructions, executable by the processor 322, to control the player station. The memory device 324 also stores other data such as image data, event data, player input data, random or pseudo-random number generators, pay-table data or information and applicable game rules that relate to the play of the player station. In one embodiment, the memory device 324 includes random access memory (RAM), which can include non-volatile RAM (NVRAM), magnetic RAM (MRAM), ferroelectric RAM (FeRAM) and other forms as commonly understood in the gaming industry. In one embodiment, the memory device 324 includes read only memory (ROM). In one embodiment, the memory device 324 includes flash memory and/or EEPROM. Any other suitable magnetic, optical and/or semiconductor memory may operate in conjunction with the player station and gaming system disclosed herein.

In one embodiment, part or all of the program code and/or operating data described above can be stored in a detachable or removable memory device, including, but not limited to, a suitable cartridge, disk, CD ROM, DVD or USB memory device. In other embodiments, part or all of the program code and/or operating data described above can be downloaded to the memory device through a suitable network.

In one embodiment, an operator or a player can use such a removable memory device in a desktop computer, a laptop personal computer, a personal digital assistant (PDA), portable computing device, or other computerized platform to implement the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the gaming system is operable over a wireless network, such as part of a wireless gaming system. In this embodiment, the player station may be a hand held device, a mobile device or any other suitable wireless device that enables a player to play any suitable game at a variety of different locations. It should be appreciated that a player station as disclosed herein may be a device (e.g., EGM) that has obtained approval from a regulatory gaming commission or a device that has not obtained approval from a regulatory gaming commission. It should be appreciated that the processor and memory device may be collectively referred to herein as a “computer” or “controller.”

In one embodiment, a background play feature may be available where a player, who may be sitting at the lounge and/or at the bar with friends (at the casino) may be playing a machine from the floor by remote via the external application (e.g., a smart phone). The player may substitute into the same game he wanted from an IGT online game and play, or backend the actual game though a venue network. The game may be bankrolled by the venue the player was inside. If the player was to win the player could collect from that venue where the player was located, and/or instead of “reserving” a machine he could continue the game with an auto play during a period of time the player took a break/recess. In one embodiment, a team game may be played by a group of players (e.g., a group of 3 or 4 players) and the group of players may watch and/or play the same game on each players individual external device (e.g., a computer and/or smart phone). Similarly, as described above, the team game may be played by a group of players from a remote location (e.g., bar, lounge, casino, home, office, restaurant, etc.). In one embodiment, the team game may be played by a group of players and the group of players may share credit inputs and wins. In one embodiment, the team game may be played by the group of players and the group of players may sell off and/or share double up options and/or credits to others team players of the group.

In one embodiment, as discussed in more detail below, the gaming device randomly generates awards and/or other game outcomes based on probability data. In one such embodiment, this random determination is provided through utilization of a Random Number Generator (RNG), such as a true random number generator, a pseudo random number generator or other suitable randomization process. In one embodiment, each award or other game outcome is associated with a probability and the player station generates the award or other game outcome to be provided to the player based on the associated probabilities. In this embodiment, since the player station generates outcomes randomly or based upon one or more probability calculations, there is no certainty that the player station will ever provide the player with any specific award or other game outcome. In another embodiment, each award or other game outcome is associated with a probability and the central controller or server generates the award or other game outcome to be provided to the player based on the associated probabilities. In one embodiment, each of the player stations includes an RNG and the central server controls the display of the central display. It should be appreciated there may be one or more RNG's per: (a) display segment; (b) central display; (c) player station; (d) number of games; (e) the number of potential games; or (f) any combination of the above. It should also be appreciated that one or more processors may work together and communicate to accomplish any suitable function of the gaming system.

In another embodiment, the gaming system employs a predetermined or finite set or pool of awards or other game outcomes. In this embodiment, as each award or other game outcome is provided to the player, the central controller flags or removes the provided award or other game outcome from the predetermined set or pool. Once flagged or removed from the set or pool, the specific provided award or other game outcome from that specific pool cannot be provided to the player again. This type of gaming system provides players with all of the available awards or other game outcomes over the course of the play cycle and guarantees the amount of actual wins and losses.

In one embodiment, as mentioned above and seen in FIG. 3A, one input device is a touch-screen 352 coupled with a touch-screen controller 354, or some other touch-sensitive display overlay to allow for player interaction with the images on the display. The touch-screen and the touch-screen controller are connected to a video controller 356. A player can make decisions and input signals into the player station by touching the touch-screen at the appropriate places. One such input device is a conventional touch-screen button panel. In another embodiment, a plurality or each of the display segments is a touch-screen 352 coupled with a touch-screen controller 354 or some other touch-sensitive display overlay to allow for player interaction with the images on the display segments. The touch-screens 352 and the touch-screen controllers 354 are connected to a video controller. The player station may further include a plurality of communication ports for enabling communication of the processor with external peripherals, such as external video sources, expansion buses, game or other displays, an SCSI port or a key pad. In one embodiment, at least one payment acceptor 324 that communicates with processor 322 for playing a bet, input devices 340, and display devices 326, 328 are provided.

The player stations, the central controller and the display segments may include serial interfaces and/or ethernet (e.g., G2S (game-to-system) protocol uses commodity Ethernet equipment and TCP/IP) to connect to specific subsystems or subnets internal and external to the player stations, central controller and the display segments. The serial devices may have electrical interface requirements that differ from the “standard” EIA serial interfaces provided by general-purpose computers. These interfaces may include EIA, Fiber Optic Serial, optically coupled serial interfaces, and current loop style serial interfaces, etc. In addition, to conserve serial interfaces internally in the player station, serial devices may be connected in a shared, daisy-chain fashion where multiple peripheral devices are connected to a single serial channel.

The serial interfaces and/or ethernet (e.g., G2S (game-to-system) protocol uses commodity Ethernet equipment and TCP/IP) may be used to transmit information using communication protocols that are unique to the gaming industry. For example, SAS is a communication protocol used to transmit information, such as metering information, from a player station to a remote device. Often SAS is used in conjunction with a player tracking system. EGMs may be treated as peripheral devices to a casino communication controller and connected in a shared daisy chain fashion to a single serial interface and/or ethernet. In both cases, the peripheral devices are preferably assigned device addresses. If so, the serial controller circuitry must implement a method to generate or detect unique device addresses. In one embodiment, security-monitoring circuits detect intrusion into a player station or gaming station by monitoring security switches attached to access doors in a designated area, such as a player station cabinet. In one embodiment, access violations result in suspension of game play and can trigger additional security operations to preserve the current state of game play. These circuits also function when power is off by use of a battery backup. In one embodiment, as seen in FIG. 3A, the player station includes a sound generating device controlled by one or more sounds cards 358 which function in conjunction with the processor. In one embodiment, the sound generating device includes at least one and preferably a plurality of speakers 360 or other sound generating hardware and/or software for generating sounds, such as playing music for the primary and/or secondary game or for other modes of the player station, such as an attract mode. In one embodiment, the player station provides dynamic sounds coupled with attractive multimedia images displayed on one or more of the display devices to provide an audio-visual representation or to otherwise display full-motion video with sound to attract players to the player station. During idle periods, the player station may display a sequence of audio and/or visual attraction messages to attract potential players to the player station. The videos may also be customized for or to provide any appropriate information.

In one embodiment, the gaming system may include a sensor, such as a camera in communication with the processor (and possibly controlled by the processor) that is selectively positioned to acquire an image of a player actively using the player station and/or the surrounding area of the player station. In one embodiment, the camera may be configured to selectively acquire still or moving (e.g., video) images and may be configured to acquire the images in either an analog, digital or other suitable format. The display devices may be configured to display the image acquired by the camera as well as display the visible manifestation of the game in split screen or picture-in-picture fashion. For example, the camera may acquire an image of the player and the processor may incorporate that image into the primary and/or secondary game as a game image, symbol or indicia. In another embodiment, the gaming system includes a wireless transceiver or a camcorder and the display segments are components of or are connected to televisions, satellites, DVD players, digital video recorders and internet-enabled devices. In one embodiment, the game may be displayed on the central display and replicated on one or more the player stations. In another embodiment, the game is only displayed on the central display and the player station is only used to input decisions or commands in the game. In another embodiment, a primary or base game is displayed on the player station and/or the central display and one or more bonus games are displayed on the central display only. In one embodiment, the player stations provide other information to a player, such as the win/loss history of that certain games or the win/loss history of that player. It should be appreciated that the central display and the player stations may work together with a central controller or a plurality of servers to provide the games to the player in any suitable manner.

FIG. 3B is a block diagram illustrating a player station 320 in communication with a central controller and a central display 310 in communication with the central controller for use in the gaming device of FIG. 2, in which aspects of the present invention may be realized. In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 3B, one or more of the player stations 320 are in communication with each other and/or at least one central server, central controller or remote host 366 through a data network or remote communication link 368. The central server, central controller or remote host is any suitable server or computing device, which includes at least one processor and at least one memory or storage device, and may also be in communication with a central display 310. In other embodiments, the central server is a progressive controller or a processor of one of the player stations in the gaming system. In these embodiments, the processor of each player station is configured to transmit and receive events, messages, commands, a current progressive value or any other suitable data or signal between the individual player station and the central server. The player station processor is operable to execute such communicated events, messages or commands in conjunction with the operation of the player station. Moreover, the processor of the central server is configured to transmit and receive events, messages, commands or any other suitable data or signal between the central server and each of the individual player stations. The central server processor is operable to execute such communicated events, messages or commands in conjunction with the operation of the central server. It should be appreciated that one or more of each of the functions of the central controller may be performed by one or more player station processors. It should be further appreciated that each of the functions of the player station processors, as disclosed herein, may be performed by the central controller. In one embodiment, the central controller has an Uninterruptible Power Supply (“UPS”). In one embodiment, the UPS is a rack mounted UPS module.

In one embodiment, the game outcome provided to the player is determined by a central server or controller and provided to the player at the player station. In this embodiment, each of the player stations is in communication with the central server or controller. Upon a player initiating game play at one of the player stations, the initiated player station communicates a game outcome request to the central server or controller. In one embodiment, the central server or controller receives the game outcome request and randomly generates a game outcome for the primary game based on probability data. In another embodiment, the central server or controller randomly generates a game outcome for the secondary game based on probability data. In another embodiment, the central server or controller randomly generates a game outcome for both the primary game and the secondary game based on probability data. The central server or controller is capable of storing and utilizing program code or other data similar to the processor and memory device of the player station. In an alternative embodiment, the central server or controller maintains one or more predetermined pools or sets of predetermined game outcomes. The central server or controller receives the game outcome request and independently selects a predetermined game outcome from a set or pool of game outcomes. The central server or controller flags or marks the selected game outcome as used. Once a game outcome is flagged as used, it is prevented from further selection from the set or pool and cannot be selected by the central controller or server upon another wager. The provided game outcome can include a primary game outcome, a secondary game outcome, primary and secondary game outcomes, or a series of game outcomes. The central server or controller communicates the generated or selected game outcome to the initiated player station. The player station receives the generated or selected game outcome and provides the game outcome to the player. In an alternative embodiment, how the generated or selected game outcome is to be presented or displayed to the player, such as a reel symbol combination of a player station or a hand of cards dealt in a card game, is also determined by the central server or controller and communicated to the initiated player station to be presented or displayed to the player. Central production or control can assist a gaming establishment or other entity in maintaining appropriate records, controlling gaming, reducing and preventing cheating or electronic or other errors, reducing or eliminating win-loss volatility.

In one embodiment, the player stations disclosed herein are associated with or otherwise integrated with one or more player tracking systems. In this embodiment, the player station and/or player tracking system tracks players gaming activity at the player station. In one such embodiment, the player station and/or associated player tracking system timely tracks when a player inserts their playing tracking card to begin a gaming session and also timely tracks when a player removes their player tracking card when concluding play for that gaming session. In another embodiment, rather than requiring a player to insert a player-tracking card, the player station utilizes one or more portable devices carried by a player, such as a cell phone, a radio frequency identification tag or any other suitable wireless device to track when a player begins and ends a gaming session. In another embodiment, the player station utilizes any suitable biometric technology or ticket technology to track when a player begins and ends a gaming session. During one or more gaming sessions, the player station and/or player tracking system tracks any suitable information, such as any amounts wagered, average wager amounts and/or the time these wagers are placed. In different embodiments, for one or more players, the player tracking system includes the player's account number, the player's card number, the player's first name, the player's surname, the player's preferred name, the player's player tracking ranking, any promotion status associated with the player's player tracking card, the player's address, the player's birthday, the player's anniversary, the player's recent gaming sessions, or any other suitable data. The player stations are capable of being connected together through a data network. In one embodiment, the data network is a local area network (LAN), in which one or more of the player stations are substantially proximate to each other and an on-site central server or controller as in, for example, a gaming establishment or a portion of a gaming establishment. In another embodiment, the data network is a wide area network (WAN) in which one or more of the player stations are in communication with at least one off-site central server or controller. The player stations may be located in a different part of the gaming establishment or within a different gaming establishment than the off-site central server or controller. Thus, the WAN may include an off-site central server or controller and an off-site player station located within gaming establishments in the same geographic area, such as a city or state. The WAN gaming system may be substantially identical to the LAN gaming system described above, although the number of player stations in each system may vary relative to each other.

In one embodiment, as a benefit to one or more of the gaming venues (e.g., a casino), using the player tracking system, along with use of the GPS positioning, for identifying the movements of the players throughout the gaming venues, identifying cash, money, credits, and award amounts spent along with various trends (e.g., historical) for generating visual graphs while displaying showing top view of the gaming venue (e.g., looking down from above the gaming venue) to improve casino layouts and identify patterns an movements of all types of players.

In another embodiment, the data network is an internet or intranet. The operation of the player station can be viewed at the player station with at least one internet browser. Operation of the player station and accumulation of credits may be accomplished with only a connection to the central server or controller (the internet/intranet server) through a conventional phone or other data transmission line, digital subscriber line (DSL), T-I line, coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, WIFI, or other suitable connection. Players may access an internet game page from any location where an internet connection and computer, or other internet facilitator is available. The expansion in the number of computers and number and speed of internet connections in recent years increases opportunities for players to play from an ever-increasing number of remote sites. It should be appreciated that enhanced bandwidth of digital wireless communications may render such technology suitable for some or all communications, particularly if such communications are encrypted. Higher data transmission speeds may be useful for enhancing the sophistication and response of the display and interaction with the player.

In another embodiment, as described above, the gaming system is in communication with a central server or controller. The central server or controller may be any suitable server or computing device, which includes at least one processor and a memory or storage device. In alternative embodiments, the central server is a progressive controller or another player station in the gaming system. In one embodiment, the memory device stores different game programs and instructions, executable by a player station processor, to control the player station. Each executable game program represents a different game or type of game, which may be played on one or more of the player stations in the gaming system. Such different games may include the same or substantially the same game play with different pay tables. In different embodiments, the executable game program is for a primary game, a secondary game or both. In another embodiment, the game program may be executable as a secondary game to be played simultaneous with the play of a primary game (which may be downloaded to or fixed on the player station) or vice versa.

In this embodiment, one, all or a plurality of the player stations at least includes one or more display devices and/or one or more input devices for interaction with a player. A local processor, such as the above-described player station processor or a processor of a local server, is operable with the display device(s) and/or the input device(s) of one or more of the player stations. In operation, the central controller is operable to communicate one or more of the stored game programs to at least one local processor. In different embodiments, the stored game programs are communicated or delivered by embedding the communicated game program in a device or a component (e.g., a “chip” to be inserted in a player station), writing the game program on a disc or other media, downloading or streaming the game program over a dedicated data network, internet or a telephone line. After the stored game programs are communicated from the central server, the local processor executes the communicated program to facilitate play of the communicated program by a player through the display device(s) and/or input device(s) of the player station. That is, when a game program is communicated to a local processor, the local processor changes the game or type of game played at the player station or displayed on the display segment. Though the illustrated embodiments are described with the central controller determining a game result for the player and communicating that result to the central display 310 and one or more player stations, any other suitable game determining method may be employed in any embodiment of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the central display 310 is associated with a central display 310 server. This central display 310 server determines the game outcome for the games played on each of the display segments. The central display 310 server communicates the game outcome to the central controller, which communicates the game outcome to one or more of the player stations.

In one embodiment, the central controller determines the award to provide to the player based on the game outcome. In another embodiment, the player stations determine the award and/or progress jackpot/value to provide to the players based on the game outcomes. In another embodiment, the central controller determines the game outcome displayed on the central display 310 and the player station determines any award and/or progress jackpot/value to provide to the player based on the game outcome. The player station determines both the game outcome and any award to provide to the player based on the game out come. In another embodiment, the central controller determines part of the outcome and the player station determines part of the outcome. That is, both the central controller and the player station determine part of a player's outcome and/or award.

Further, in the gaming industry, many different manufacturers make gaming machines and player stations. The communication protocols on the player station may be hard-wired into the player station and each player station/gaming machine manufacturer may utilize a different proprietary communication protocol. A player station manufacturer may also produce host systems, in which case their player stations are compatible with their own host systems. However, in a heterogeneous gaming environment, player stations from different manufacturers, each with its own communication protocol, may be connected to host systems from other manufacturers, each with another communication protocol. Therefore, communication compatibility issues regarding the protocols used by the player stations in the system and protocols used by the host systems must be considered.

In another embodiment, player stations at one or more gaming sites may be networked to a central server in a progressive configuration, wherein a portion of each wager to initiate a base or primary game may be allocated to bonus or secondary event awards. In one embodiment, a host site computer is coupled to central servers at a variety of mutually remote gaming sites for providing a multi-site linked progressive automated gaming system. The host site computer may serve player stations distributed throughout a number of properties at different geographical locations including, for example, different locations within a city or different cities within a state. The host site computer may be maintained for the overall operation and control of the system. A host site computer may govern/control the entire progressive gaming system and may be the master for computing all progressive jackpots and values for each and every gaming device. All participating gaming sites report to, and receive information from, the host site computer. Each central server computer may be responsible for all data communication between the player station hardware and software and the host site computer. An individual player station may trigger a progressive win, for example through a game play event such as a symbol-driven trigger in the multi-component game. The central server or other central controller determines when a progressive win is triggered. The central controller and an individual player station may work in conjunction with each other to determine when a progressive win is triggered, for example through an individual player station meeting a predetermined requirement established by the central controller. The progressive award win may be triggered based on one or more game play events, such as a symbol-driven trigger. In other embodiments, the progressive award triggering event or qualifying condition may be by exceeding a certain amount of game play (such as number of games, number of credits, or amount of time), or reaching a specified number of points earned during game play. In another embodiment, a player station is randomly or apparently randomly selected to provide a player of that player station one or more progressive awards. In one such embodiment, the player station does not provide any apparent reasons to the player for winning a progressive award, wherein winning the progressive award is not triggered by an event in or based specifically on any of the plays of any primary game. That is, a player is provided a progressive award without any explanation or alternatively with simple explanations. In another embodiment, a player is provided a progressive award at least partially based on a game triggered or symbol triggered event, such as at least partially based on the play of a primary game. In one embodiment, one or more of the progressive awards are each funded via a side bet or side wager. In this embodiment, a player must place or wager a side bet to be eligible to win the progressive award associated with the side bet. In one embodiment, the player must place the maximum bet and the side bet to be eligible to win one of the progressive awards. In another embodiment, if the player places or wagers the required side bet, the player may wager at any credit amount during the primary game (i.e., the player need not place the maximum bet and the side bet to be eligible to win one of the progressive awards).

In one such embodiment, the greater the players' wager (in addition to the placed side bet), the greater the odds or probability that the player will win one of the progressive awards. It should be appreciated that one or more of the progressive awards may each be funded, at least in part, based on the wagers placed on the primary games of the gaming machines in the gaming system, via a gaming establishment or via any suitable manner. In another embodiment, one or more of the progressive awards are partially funded via a side-bet or side-wager, which the player may make (and which may be tracked via a side-bet meter). In one embodiment, one or more of the progressive awards are funded with only side-bets or side-wagers placed. In another embodiment, one or more of the progressive awards are funded based on player's wagers as described above as well as any side-bets or side-wagers placed. In one alternative embodiment, a minimum wager level is required for a player station to qualify to be selected to obtain one of the progressive awards. In one embodiment, this minimum wager level is the maximum wager level for the primary game in the gaming machine. In another embodiment, no minimum wager level is required for a gaming machine to qualify to be selected to obtain one of the progressive awards.

In another embodiment, players at a linked player stations in a gaming system participate in a group gaming environment. In one embodiment, players at linked player stations work in conjunction with one another, such as playing together as a team or group, to win one or more awards. In one such embodiment, any award won by the group is shared, either equally or based on any suitable criteria, amongst the different players of the group. In another embodiment, players linked player stations compete against one another for one or more awards. In one such embodiment, players at linked player stations participate in a gaming tournament for one or more awards. In another embodiment, players at linked player stations play for one or more awards wherein an outcome generated by one player station affects the outcomes generated by one or more linked player stations.

FIG. 4 is a schematic block diagram of a server-based gaming network 400 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. In the exemplary embodiment, network 400 includes a slot floor mix recommendation system 402 incorporated therein. In one embodiment, slot floor mix recommendation system 402 is a stand-alone system communicatively coupled to network 400. In various embodiments, slot floor mix recommendation system 402 is incorporated within various components of network 400. Network 400 provides methods and devices for managing one or more networked gaming establishments. Network 400 may be embodied in what is known as a server-based gaming network, sbX™ network. For example, in one embodiment, a host may be included in the network, such as a server-based gaming network. For example, a gaming server (e.g., an sbX™ server) may be an example of the host. The gaming server (e.g., the sbX™ server) may be a set of servers running central applications and may attach as the host to EGMs via the gaming network. In one embodiment, a host, operating in the gaming network, may be a server (e.g., an sbX™ server) managing and controlling the gaming network (e.g., an sbX™ network). In one embodiment, the host, operating in the gaming network, may monitor the monetary activity of the EGM. The host may track any error conditions on the EGM. The host may configure the EGM such as to enable/disable games, download games, and configure game parameters (denomination, payback, etc.). For example, a gaming management solution (e.g., IGT® sbX™ gaming management solution) may be a server-based system to act as a repository for all game content that may be downloaded to EGMs giving each EGM instant access to the technology within the EGM's environment. The game software, random number generator and game logic are controlled by the EGM. This significantly increases configuration speed so that games may be adapted and seamlessly integrate analytics to the database in minutes. Game titles are accessed from the server using a floor manager (e.g., IGT Floor Manager®), running on the host, and allow operators to reconfigure their gaming floor almost instantly. In one embodiment, the floor manager, operating on the host, is a G2S-compliant game-to-system management solution that enables operators to remotely change the game mix on the casino floor. In one embodiment, the floor manager application provides operators with sophisticated and user-friendly visualization tools to analyze terminal (e.g., the EGM) and game performance in real-time. Using Quick Change functionality (QCF), the floor manager, running on the host server(s), enables operators to rapidly locate low performing games, select a new theme from the game library and download the new theme on the EGM in the gaming venue floor within minutes. The software displays a map of the casino floor and highlights EGMs color-coded to indicate performance. Operators can select individual terminals and receive analysis at terminal-, multi-game and single-game level, based on KPIs such as coin-in, actual win and occupancy of game. In one embodiment, the floor manager application is a gateway to a game-to-system library allowing operators to quickly schedule changes or switch between themes. Once selected, the game's configurations can be set including denomination, max bet and even volume and credit limits on the EGM. For example, new gaming industry-leading themes may be added to the game library every month and the floor manager application provides rapid deployment to the gaming floor to ensures an EGM will maintain high performance and continually provide the user with newer and advanced games to add to the users favorite and/or preferred games. In one embodiment, the quick recognition and eradication of low performing games and ability to respond to consumer requests on the floor, empowers a gaming venue to concentrate on player satisfaction and gaming experience.

In addition, with the sbX™ gaming management, as each EGM connected to the system is self-sufficient, if there is a malfunction or connectivity fault, information is backed up at the individual EGM for a predetermined period of time (e.g., two weeks), ensuring no data loss. Once the problem is resolved and the EGM is re-connected to a server, the backed-up data is instantly dropped into the database. Operators now have the ability to run their own choice of games on any interconnected terminal in the gaming venue. This allows management to switch between games at any time, delivering an unmatched level of flexibility and control over their gaming environment. Users are also able to select the games (e.g., a favorite and/or preferred EGM) and denominations they wish to play at the terminal. In one embodiment, the sbX™ gaming management system delivers a flexible and diversified approach to management and control of the casino floor, reconfiguring gaming machines at the appropriate time and schedule. For example, in one embodiment, all EGMs connected to the server are granted full access to themes held in a games depository and operators can reconfigure each terminal remotely from the workstation. A Games Library may be included and may contain over 300 gaming titles in a game-to-system depository. In one embodiment, the sbX™ gaming management application allows for games to be updated in minutes and with this simple configuration process in place, operators can place better focus on in-depth player statistics. Accurate information in real-time optimizes marketing strategies, to provide the ultimate gaming experience and ensure the floor remains dynamic. Instantaneous analysis and decisions may be implemented to adjust elements and increase user satisfaction and loyalty. This also enables a gaming venue to ensure users are able to play the latest content available. Various game themes can be changed, tested and reverted in different areas of the gaming venue with rapid execution. In one embodiment, the sbX™ application and its integrated modules provide for data analysis and also focus on player experience thereby allowing for the development of innovative marketing programs. For example, in one embodiment, certain banks of machines may be adapted to a featured game, linked to a proprietary progressive jackpot and then heavily promoted during certain times. Thus, these games may become a favorite and preferred EGM during a particular time. Following the promotion, the EGMs can quickly be restored to their original games. In one embodiment, the sbX™ system may be driven by IGT's Advanced Video Platform (AVP®) with the technology seamlessly integrated with all modules, permitting fast connectivity and advanced capabilities. In addition, GSA open protocols are used so that sbX™ applications are interoperable with third-party devices that have also adopted GSA open protocols.

Thus, in one embodiment, if a demand for a particular type of the EGM is in high demand (e.g., multiple users are selecting a favorite and/or preferred game on a particular EGM) but the supply of the favorite and/or preferred game on a particular EGM is low, the floor manager application provides the ability to quickly (e.g., within minutes) update and replace the EGM's having low performing games and/or non-preferred games on the EGM with the higher performing and/or favorite and preferred game on a particular EGM.

In one embodiment, network 400 permits the convenient provisioning of networked gaming machines and other devices relevant to casino operations. Game themes may be easily and conveniently added or changed, if desired. Related software, including but not limited to player tracking software and peripheral software may be downloaded to networked gaming machines, mobile gaming devices, thin clients and/or other devices, such as kiosks, networked gaming tables, player stations.

In some implementations, servers or other devices of a central system will determine game outcomes and/or provide other wager gaming functionality. In some such implementations, wagering games may be executed primarily on one or more devices of a central system, such as a server, a host computer, etc. For example, wager gaming determinations, such as interim and final game outcomes and bonuses, may be made by one or more servers or other networked devices. Player tracking functions, accounting functions and some display-related functions associated with wagering games may be performed, at least in part, by one or more devices of a casino network and/or of a central system.

In the exemplary embodiment, network 400 includes a casino computer room 404 and networked devices of a gaming establishment 406. Gaming establishment 406 is configured for communication with a central system 408 via a gateway 410. Other gaming establishments 412, 414, and 416 are also configured for communication with central system 408.

Gaming establishment 406 includes multiple gaming machines 418. Some of gaming machines 418 form a cluster or “bank” 420 of gaming machines 418. Gaming machines 418 are configured for communication with one or more devices of casino computer room 404 or similar devices disposed elsewhere in gaming establishment 406. Some of gaming machines 418 may be configured to read from, and/or write information to, a portable instrument such as but not limited to, a ticket and a player loyalty device. In one embodiment, gaming establishment 406 also includes a bank of networked gaming tables 422. However, network 400 may be implemented in gaming establishments having any number of gaming machines, gaming tables, etc. It will be appreciated that many gaming establishments 406 include hundreds or even thousands of gaming machines 418, gaming tables 422 and/or mobile devices 424, not all of which are necessarily associated bank 420 and some of which may not be connected to network 400. At least some of gaming machines 418 and/or mobile devices 424 may be “thin clients” that are configured to operate, at least in part, according to instructions from another device (such as a server).

Multiple storage devices 426, sbX™ server 428, License Manager 430, servers 434, 436, 438, and 440, host device(s) 442, and main network device 444 are disposed within computer room 404 of gaming establishment 406. In practice, more or fewer devices may be used. Depending on the implementation, some such devices may reside elsewhere in gaming establishment 406.

One or more of the devices in computer room 404 (or similar devices disposed elsewhere in gaming establishment 406 or in gaming establishment 412, 414, or 416) may be configured to provide functionality relevant to embodiments of the present invention. For example, one or more of servers 434, 436, 438, or 440 may be configured for communication with gaming machines 418 that are configured to provide a subset of themes for selection by a player. For example, one or more such servers may be configured to provide a selection of a subset of four themes from a large number of available themes.

Accordingly, in some embodiments at least some gaming establishments may be configured for communication with one another. In this example, gaming establishments 412, 414, and 416 are configured for communication with casino computer room 404. Such a configuration may allow devices and/or operators in casino 406 to communicate with and/or control devices in other casinos. In some such implementations, a server (or another device) in computer room 404 may be configured to communicate with and/or control devices in gaming establishments 412, 414, and 416. Conversely, devices and/or operators in another gaming establishment may communicate with and/or control devices in casino 406.

Some of these servers in computer room 404 may be configured to perform tasks relating to accounting, player loyalty, bonusing/progressives, configuration of gaming machines, etc. A Radius server and/or a DHCP server may also be configured for communication with the gaming network. In various embodiments, sbX™ server 428 and the other servers shown in FIG. 4 include or are in communication with clustered CPUs, redundant storage devices, including backup storage devices, switches, etc. Such storage devices may include a redundant array of independent disks (RAID) array, back-up hard drives and/or tape drives, etc.

In various embodiments, many of these devices (including but not limited to License Manager 430, servers 434, 436, 438, and 440, and main network device 444) are mounted in a single rack with sbX™ server 428. Accordingly, many or all such devices will sometimes be referenced in the aggregate as an “sbX™ server.” However, in alternative implementations, one or more of these devices is in communication with sbX™ server 428 and/or other devices of the network but located elsewhere. For example, some of the devices could be mounted in separate racks within computer room 404 or located elsewhere on the network. Moreover, in some implementations large volumes of data may be stored elsewhere, e.g., via a storage area network (“SAN”).

Computer room 404 may include one or more operator consoles or other host devices that are configured for communication with other devices within and outside of computer room 404. Such host devices may be provided with software, hardware and/or firmware for implementing functions described herein. However, such host devices need not be located within computer room 404. Wired host devices 442 (which are desktop and laptop computers in this example) and wireless devices 424 (which are PDAs in this example) may be located elsewhere in gaming establishment 406 or at a remote location.

Some embodiments include devices for implementing access control, security and/or other functions relating to the communication between different devices on the network. One or more devices in central system 408 may also be configured to perform, at least in part, tasks specific to embodiments of the present invention. For example, one or more servers 446, storage devices and/or host devices 442 of central system 408 may be configured to implement the functions described in detail elsewhere herein. One or more servers 446, storage devices 448 and/or host devices 442 of central system 408 may maintain player account information.

Some gaming networks 400 provide features for gaming tables that are similar to those provided for gaming machines, including but not limited to bonusing, player loyalty/player tracking, the use of cashless instruments, etc. Some configurations can provide automated, multi-player roulette, blackjack, baccarat, and other table games. The table games may be conducted by a dealer and/or by using some form of automation, which may include an automated roulette wheel, an electronic representation of a dealer, etc. In some such implementations, devices such as cameras 450, radio frequency identification devices 452 and 454, etc., may be used to identify and/or track patrons, playing cards, chips, etc. Some of gaming tables 422 may be configured for communication with individual player terminals (not shown), which may be configured to accept bets, present an electronic representation of a dealer, indicate game outcomes, etc.

Moreover, some such automated gaming tables 422 and/or associated player terminals may include, or may be configured for communication with, a device that includes a coin-out meter, a ticket reader, a card reader, a ticket printer, and/or other related features. In some implementations, one such device may provide such functionality to a plurality of automated gaming tables 422 and/or associated player terminals.

Gaming establishment 406 also includes networked kiosks 456. Kiosks 456 may include card readers, ticket readers, printers, a user interface system, one or more displays, etc. Depending on the implementation, kiosks 456 may be used for various purposes, including but not limited to cashing out, prize redemption, redeeming points from a player loyalty program, redeeming “cashless” indicia such as bonus tickets, smart cards, etc.

Kiosks 456 may be configured to read information from, and/or write information to, a portable instrument such as a smart card, a ticket, a card having a magnetic strip, etc. The corresponding gaming devices are preferably configured for communication with such kiosks 456 and vice versa. Accordingly, some such kiosks 456 may include a wireless interface that is configured for communication with mobile gaming devices 424.

In the exemplary embodiment, each bank 420 has a corresponding switch 458. Each switch 458 is configured for communication with one or more devices in computer room 404 via main network device 444, which combines switching and routing functionality in this example. Although various communication protocols may be used, some preferred implementations use the Gaming Standards Association's G2S Message Protocol. Some systems may use a gaming-industry-specific transport layer called CASH™, which offers additional functionality and security.

Gaming establishment 406 may also include an RFID network, implemented in part by RFID switches 460 and multiple RFID readers 452. An RFID network may be used, for example, to track objects such as mobile gaming devices 424, which include RFID tags 454, patrons, chips, player loyalty devices, etc., in the vicinity of gaming establishment 406.

Various alternative network topologies can be used to implement different aspects of the invention and/or to accommodate varying numbers of networked devices. For example, some gaming establishments may include cameras 450 for implementing advanced player tracking, player navigation or other functionality. Gaming establishments with large numbers of gaming machines 418 may require multiple instances of some network devices (e.g., of main network device 444, which combines switching and routing functionality in this example) and/or the inclusion of other network devices not shown in FIG. 4. Some embodiments may include one or more middleware servers disposed between kiosks 456, RFID switches 460 and/or bank switches 458 and one or more devices (e.g., a corresponding server, router or other network device) in computer room 404. Such middleware servers can provide various useful functions, including but not limited to the filtering and/or aggregation of data received from switches, from individual gaming machines and from other devices. Some implementations of the invention include load-balancing methods and devices for otherwise managing network traffic.

In one embodiment, the use of the above system in association with electronic gaming machines eliminates the necessity of having the EGM's dedicated to a particular amount of wager. By use of the cashless wagering system via the sbX™ server 428, central system 408, servers 446, the main network device 444, the storage devices and/or the host devices 442 of central system 408, it is possible to change the wager limits of any or all of the individual electronic gaming machines. Thus, the minimum wager of the EGM can be changed at any time. It would also be possible to allow the player to select the wager limit.

This permits the casino operators to increase the usefulness of the EGMs to the gaming venue. In one embodiment, players playing EGMs of different wagering limits may elect to participate in common jackpot. Another feature of the cashless wagering system that is advantageous to a gaming venue is the tracking of the financial amount of use of the EGM by a particular player. For example, if the amount of dollars that are being played by a player is desired to be tracked, the player inserts the financial transaction device, which in one embodiment is in the form of a card, which has a magnetic code on it, into the EGM, which may serve to identify the player and an associated financial account of a financial institution. The EGM would then store is the amount of play, time and/or money, and/or the individual player. The CPU would stop tracking the individual player when a cash out slip was generated. This system provides a complete accounting of customer accounts. Moreover, once a player has inserted the financial transaction device into an EGM, that player can then be tracked by the insertion of any financial transaction device generated, and/or previously generated, by the EGM, gaming venue, and/or financial institution for that player. The player would not have to insert the identification card into an EGM as long as the player had the financial transaction device. For example, a financial institution and/or gaming venue may provide the player with a financial transaction device (e.g., a credit card like device) which may have secured data associated with the player, at least one financial account, and/or the financial institution. Using the sbX™ server 428, central system 408, servers 446, the main network device 444, the storage devices and/or the host devices 442 of central system 408, the financial transaction device secured information is verified, activated, provided, and/or tracked while being used and may then be used to deposit any financial amount into an ATM. It should be noted that various types and forms of financial transaction devices may be used at any given time. For example, in one embodiment, a player may have been previously provided a card like device (e.g., a players card) having a players profile and financial institution account information loaded and stored onto the financial transaction device. The player then uses this credit card like device for gaming and inserts it into the EGM to commence a gaming operation. At the time of performing the cash out operations, the player may elect to receive a printed cash out slip, an illustrated below in FIG. 5, having at least an account identifier linking the financial transaction device (e.g., the printed ticket) to at least one financial account of at least one financial institution associated which information was obtained via the service window application and/or provided by the EGM reading the credit card like device. At this point the player may use the printed cash out slip for depositing the financial amount into at least one financial account, performing a cashless wagering operation in the EGM, and/or using the financial transaction device for payment of goods and services by gaming and non-gaming venues, particularly using the information window (e.g., a service window) of the EGM, which may be operated by and/or in communication with an sbX™ server 428, central system 408, servers 446, a main network device 444, storage devices and/or host devices 442 of central system 408 may be configured to implement the functions described in detail elsewhere herein) and/or via the external application.

In one embodiment, any wireless communication, between the ATM, EGM, and/or financial institution may go directly to the processing unit on a particular and identified EGM being in communication with and/or controlled by a sbX™ server 428, central system 408, servers 446, a main network device 444, storage devices and/or host devices 442 of central system 408 may be configured to implement the functions described in detail elsewhere herein. The EGM may be configured with a hardware device (e.g., those described in FIG. 4) that communicates with the PMD. The EGM, using a service window application, may contain a device that communicates with a bill acceptor or printer to simulate bills and tickets. The EGM may have a device (software and/or hardware) that communicates with a back end host that ultimately uses SAS or G2S to move the money to and from the particular and identified EGM. This configuration allows all of EGMs to be retrofitted for mobile payments. Moreover, the sbX™ server 428, central system 408, servers 446, a main network device 444, storage devices and/or host devices 442 of central system 408 may be configured to implement the functions for providing the financial transaction device and also for readying and/or allowing the financial transaction device for use for depositing the financial amount into the at least one financial account, cashless wagering in the EGM, and/or payment of the goods and the services. The financial transaction device produced by the sbX™ server 428, central system 408, servers 446, the main network device 444, the storage devices and/or the host devices 442 of central system 408 may be configured to implement and assist with the any and/or all functions used for depositing the financial amount into at least one financial account of the at least one financial institution associated with the gaming network by either the EGM and/or the ATM, performing a cashless wagering operation in the EGM, and/or purchasing the goods and services.

In one embodiment, the player may cash out from the EGM to the financial transaction device and then immediately deposit the financial amount into the ATM, performing additional cashless gaming operations, and/or purchase goods and/or services from gaming and/or non-gaming venues. The service window application available on the EGM may assist with performing each of these functions. For example, employing the service window application in communication with the sbX™ server 428, the central system 408, servers 446, the main network device 444, storage devices and/or host devices 442 of central system 408, the player may cash out from the EGM to the financial transaction device and then immediately deposit the financial amount into the ATM, performing additional cashless gaming operations, and/or purchase goods and/or services from gaming and/or non-gaming venues. In one embodiment, each EGM may have specific and unique identifiers, which may be displayed in the service window application, and this identifying information (e.g., account number associated with the financial institution) of the EGM, the players profile, and/or the financial transaction device may be included in the financial transaction device provided using the sbX™ server 428, the central system 408, servers 446, the main network device 444, and/or host devices 442 of central system 408 described herein. In one embodiment, each EGM may have specific and unique identifiers, and this identifying information of the EGM may be included in on the financial transaction device provided via the sbX™ server 428, the central system 408, servers 446, the main network device 444, and/or host devices 442 of central system 408 described herein.

In one embodiment, prior to performing a gaming operation, a request for approval may be displayed to the player requesting data (e.g., player information, account information, financial institution data, and the like) that is necessary for depositing the financial amount into the ATM, and the data intended to be included on the financial transaction device may be verified and/or validated by the player, the gaming venue, and/or financial institution. This information is then securely stored and saved and retrieved upon demand and allows the player for greater access to the financial amounts at any particular time.

FIG. 5 is a diagrammatic block diagram of the system 500 in which aspects of the present invention may be realized. The system itself is referred to as a Coinless Gaming System and is referred to generally by reference 510. The Coinless Gaming System 500 is controlled by a host central processing unit (CPU) 502 consisting of a stand alone computer having all of the conventional attributes of a general purpose computer. In one embodiment a status brand fault tolerant computer is used. The CPU 502 is connected to a series of gaming apparatus, such as electronic gaming machines (EGM)/slot machine 532 (e.g., 532 a-b). The play of the EGM 532 is controlled by internal game software 508 with preset parameters for the play of the game. In one embodiment the desired game to be played is selected from a touch screen operable menu (shown in FIGS. 9-10) whereby the player can select the particular game that the player wishes to play, as well as other options, such as the amount of the wager. For example, the menu may provide the player with the options of playing blackjack, conventional slots, poker, keno, scratchers, electronic gaming options, horse racing, roulette, or any other game available on software. The player can also select the amount of the wager, for example in units of 25 cents, $1.00 or any other amount permitted by the menu. The CPU 502 controls the various menu driven options, such as game selection and amount of the wager for the game. The slot machine 200 includes a first input means in the form of a paper currency reader 522. The paper currency reader 522 provides a signal to the CPU 502 indicating that it is valid currency and value of the currency. The CPU 502 then authorizes the appropriate credit to the gaming apparatus 532. While in one embodiment the paper currency reader 522 will be able to read several different paper currency that recognize a variety of international currencies in addition to United States paper currency. The CPU 502 can have the current exchange rates for purposes of determining the credit available to the player. The EGM 532 has a second input means in the form of a bar code reader 514 (the bar code reader may also be a financial transaction device reader as described herein, such as a magnetic strip reader). Thus, the operation of financial transaction device readers 514 may be a bar code reader and the like. While in one embodiment the financial transaction device, having a bar code, a magnetic strip, an financial account identifier (e.g., a numerical value), a variety types of holograms for security and/or identification, and/or player identification, for example, inserted in the form of a permanent storage means, such as on a credit card/debit card like device, paper cash out slip, such as shown in FIG. 6, or free play coupon shown in FIG. 7, or Jackpot pay out ticket shown in FIG. 8, each of which has a bar code on the ticket for reading by the financial transaction device readers 514 (e.g., bar code reader), it is recognized that other forms of codes and the account identifier linking the financial card device to the financial institution may be used in with the bar code, and may also include a coded magnetic strip on plastic cards. While in most cases the free play coupons will be in the form of a monetary value, preprinted free play coupons not having money values associated with them, but other forms of play are possible. For example, the coupon may be used to permit the player to compete in a contest for the best hand in a casino wide poker contest, or other promotional purposes. In one embodiment, the paper currency reader 512 and the financial transaction device readers 514 are located within the housing of the EGM 532 so that the financial transaction devices, as described herein such as free play coupons, cards, cash out slips, and/or paper currency are all entered within a single slot and stored on top of each other in a single lock box that would be removable from the EGM 532 by authorized personnel. However, it is also possible to have the paper currency deposited in a separate slot from the free play coupons or cash out slips and stored separately.

The EGM 532 also includes a financial transaction device printer 516 and/or device for generating/creating the financial transaction device, and is show in FIGS. 6, 7, and 8, by way of example only, as a bar code printer 516 for printing financial transaction devices 600 of FIG. 6, 700 of FIG. 7, and/or 800 of FIG. 8, such as cash out slips and/or card like devices having bar codes (and/or magnetic strips) see 610 of FIG. 6 (similar bar codes and/or magnetic strips are listed on FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 but are not number for sake of brevity) on a permanent storage medium, such as paper, which is stored within the housing. In addition to the bar code, the magnetic strip, holograms, player identification, financial account identifier linking the financial transaction device 600 of FIG. 6, 700 of FIG. 7, and/or 800 of FIG. 8 to a financial account (e.g., see codes “012345” on FIG. 6 600, “212345” on FIG. 7 700, and/or “312345” on FIG. 8 800), the financial transaction device (e.g., a cash out slip, and/or card like device, and the like) 600 of FIG. 6, 700 of FIG. 7, and/or 800 of FIG. 8 (herein after labeled collectively as 600, 700, and 800) may also contain other information such as the date, time, match, and/or location (all shown collectively as 624 of FIG. 6 and may be included on FIGS. 7-8) of the card and/or print out of the cash out slip 600, 700, and 800. It should be noted that the financial transaction device creator/printer 524 may also be able to create and/or generate a new card like device or paper like device with a bar code, a magnetic strip, an account identifier for linking the financial transaction device to a financial account of a financial institution for depositing the financial amount into an ATM, perform additional cashless wagering, and/or purchasing goods and services. For example, a simple roll of preprinted cash out slips should be sufficient to generate from 800 to 1600 cash out slips. A sensor can signal the CPU 502 when only ten (10%) percent, or some other amount, of the coupons or card like devices are remaining so that the paper can be changed and/or the card like devices may be replenished. The printer 208 prints a bar code as directed by the CPU 502 using the sbX™ server 428 (see FIG. 4), the central system 408 (see FIG. 4), servers 446 (see FIG. 4), the main network device 444 (see FIG. 4), and/or host devices 442 (see FIG. 4) of central system 408 described above (see FIG. 4).

The financial transaction device producer/printer 516 prints a bar code 610 of FIG. 6 on the financial transaction device (e.g., cash out slips) 600, 700, and 800 responsive to the instructions from the CPU 502 as directed by the CPU 502 using sbX™ server 428 (see FIG. 4), the central system 408 (see FIG. 4), servers 446 (see FIG. 4), the main network device 444 (see FIG. 4), and/or host devices 442 (see FIG. 4) of central system 408 described above (see FIG. 4). The CPU 502 generates the bar code 610 to be printed. The bar code 610 represents the monetary value 620 of FIG. 6 (similar numeric monetary value amounts 620 may be included on FIGS. 7-8 but numbered on FIG. 6 for sake of brevity) of the value of the credit stored in the particular EGM 532 on the cash out slips 220, along with a randomly generated number in order to permit the CPU 500 to verify the validity and unique identification of the financial transaction device (e.g., a card and/or cash out slip and the like) 600, 700, 800 at a later time. This is necessary since the financial transaction device (e.g., bar code card/cash out slip) 600, 700, 800 is capable of being inserted as an input into the financial transaction device reader (e.g., magnetic strip/bar code reader) 514. Upon insertion of the financial transaction device (e.g., a card and/or cash out slip and the like) 600, 700, 800 into the financial transaction device reader (e.g., magnetic strip/bar code reader) 514, the financial transaction device reader (e.g., magnetic strip/bar code reader) 514 transmits a signal to the CPU 502 corresponding to the bar code, magnetic strip, account identifier for a financial account, and/or player identification information, and the CPU 502 compares the bar code, the magnetic strip, the account identifier for a financial account, and/or player identification information on the particular financial transaction device 600, 700, and 800 (e.g., card/cash out ticket) with those stored in its memory which contains the value of the financial transaction device 600, 700, and 800 (card/cash out slip), the unique identification, and its status.

In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, when paper currency and/or the financial transaction device (e.g., a cash out slip or a free play coupon) 600, 700, and/or 800 is inserted as an input into a EGM 532, a status indicator in the form of a visual display of the amount of the value of the card/ticket, currency or free play coupon will appear on the screen 900 and 1000, as shown in FIGS. 9-10, with a query to the player to verify that this is the right amount. In one embodiment, such display may be displayed using the service window application using the sbX™ server 428 (see FIG. 4), the central system 408 (see FIG. 4), servers 446 (see FIG. 4), the main network device 444 (see FIG. 4), and/or host devices 442 (see FIG. 4) of central system 408 described above (see FIG. 4). If it is not the right amount or there is some other error, then the player would be directed to call an attendant.

A third input to the CPU 502 or central system 408 (See FIG. 4) can be a player identification code reader 510 which is capable of reading the financial transaction device 600, 700, and/or 800 (e.g., a debit card, credit card, an identification card, a cash out slip, a ticket, and the like) with specially encoded identification information on the financial transaction device 600, 700, and/or 800, such as one having a magnetic strip, for identifying the player using the EGM 532. This the financial transaction device 600, 700, and/or 800 is intended to permit the CPU 502 to keep track of the player and the amount of time and/or money played by the identified player. The financial transaction device 600, 700, and/or 800 may also provide the player with a credit. The identification card reader 510 input can also be a key pad which the player would use to enter a number or some other means of identification.

Also associated with the CPU 502 are one or more change stations 528 a-n or convenient ATM 530 (530 a-n) devices, which instead of dispensing cash, generate and/or are enable to receive for deposit the financial transaction device 600, 700, and/or 800 usable with the electronic gaming machines 532. In one embodiment, the change station 300 consists of a second bar code reader 304 that accepts the financial transaction device 600, 700, and/or 800. The validity of the financial transaction device 600, 700, and/or 800 is verified by the CPU 502. Other security devices, such as holograms and the like that can be visually inspected to provide further security may be employed as well.

In an alternative embodiment, the change station can be more automated. The change station 528 in an alternative embodiment consists of a second paper currency reader 522, a second financial transaction device reader (e.g., bar code reader) 524, and a second financial transaction device creator/printer (e.g., bar code printer) 526 for creating a card and/or printing bar codes, magnetic strips, holograms, financial account identifiers linking the financial transaction device to a financial account, player identification, and/or other security information on a permanent storage medium. The second currency reader 522, second financial transaction device reader (e.g., bar code reader) 524, and second financial transaction device creator/printer (e.g., bar code printer) 526 are the same as used in the EGM 532. The change station 528 also includes a currency dispenser 536 so that when a financial transaction device 600, 700, and/or 800, (e.g., a cash out slip) is inserted into the financial transaction device reader 514, 524, then paper currency and coins can be dispensed directly to the user. In an alternative embodiment, a coin receiver is capable of accepting coins from a player in order to create and/or update a financial transaction device, print cash out slips having a bar code, in the same manner that the EGM 532 would create and/or update a financial transaction device and/or print out cash out slips, that could be used with the electronic gaming machines 532.

As is the case with the EGM 532, in the event that a financial transaction device 600, 700, and/or 800 is inserted into the financial transaction device reader 514, 524, the CPU 502 (or embodiments described in FIG. 4) will validate the financial transaction device 600, 700, and/or 800 by making sure that it had not already been paid or otherwise valid.

The CPU 502 is fed signals generated, by the Universal Interface Board (UIB) 506 which acts as the interface between the EGM 532 and the CPU 502, and/or generated by the sbX™ server 428 (see FIG. 4), the central system 408 (see FIG. 4), servers 446 (see FIG. 4), the main network device 444 (see FIG. 4), and/or host devices 442 (see FIG. 4) of central system 408 described above (see FIG. 4).

The UIB 506 and/or the sbX™ server 428, (see FIG. 4) may work independently and/or in conjunction to collect all of the EGM data, organizes and formats it, and then transmits the organized data to the CPU 502 and/or the central system 408 (see FIG. 4), servers 446 (see FIG. 4), the main network device 444 (see FIG. 4), and/or host devices 442 (see FIG. 4) of central system 408 described above (see FIG. 4), and also acts as a controller for the operation and functions of the central system 408 (see FIG. 4), servers 446 (see FIG. 4), the main network device 444 (see FIG. 4), and/or host devices 442 (see FIG. 4) of central system 408 described above (see FIG. 4). The UIB 506 is capable of being changed by the CPU 502 and/or the sbX™ server 428 (see FIG. 4), the central system 408 (see FIG. 4), servers 446 (see FIG. 4), the main network device 444 (see FIG. 4), and/or host devices 442 (see FIG. 4) of central system 408 described above (see FIG. 4), to alter any of its functions. While in one embodiment, printed bar codes are used as the encoding means, it is also possible to use other coding means, such as holograms, magnetic codes on magnetic strips on plastic cards. The cards would be treated the same as cash out slips, but would require magnetic code readers and magnetic code generators rather than bar code readers and bar code printers.

FIG. 11 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary method 1100 for facilitating use of a financial transaction device in which aspects of the present invention may be realized. The method 1100 begins (step 1102) by providing (e.g., generating, creating, updating, printing, and/or activating) a financial transaction device (step 1104). The method 1100 uses the financial transaction device for depositing a financial amount on the financial transaction device into an automated teller machine (ATM), perform cashless wagering operations in an electronic gaming machine (EGM), and/or purchasing goods and services (step 1106). The method 1100 ends (step 1108).

FIG. 12 is a flow chart illustrating an alternative exemplary method 1200 for facilitating use of a financial transaction device in which aspects of the present invention may be realized. The method 1200 begins (step 1202) by providing (e.g., generating, creating, updating, printing, and/or activating) a financial transaction device (step 1204). The method 1200 loads and/or stores on the financial transaction device a financial amount of monetary credit available for play on the EGM (e.g., provides an amount of gaming credit for playing on an EGM) (step 1206). The method 1200 recognizes and validates paper currency, coin currency, and/or previously loaded and stored monetary credit for being the current financial amount loaded and stored onto the financial card device (step 1208). The method 1200 represents the financial amount on the financial transaction device as the financial amount of the paper currency, the coin currency, and/or the previously loaded and stored monetary credit that is recognized and validated (step 1210). The method 1200 retains a permanent storage record of the financial amount on the financial transaction device (step 1212). The method 1200 reads the financial amount on the financial transaction device using a bar code, a hologram, a player identification (ID), a magnetic strip, and/or an account identifier linking the financial transaction device to at least one financial account of the financial institution (e.g., a financial institution associated with the gaming venue and/or an automated teller machine) (step 1214). The method 1200 performs a cashless wagering operation using the financial transaction device used for gaming in the EGM (step 1216). The method 1200 performs a cash out operation on the EGM and provides/updates the financial transaction device associated with EGM and information relating to the cash out operation (step 1218). The method 1200 uses the financial transaction device for depositing the financial amount into an ATM, performing an additional cashless wagering operation using the financial transaction device in an EGM, and/or purchasing goods and services offered by either a gaming venue and/or a non-gaming venue (step 1220). The method 1200 ends (step 1222).

Turning now to FIG. 13, a block diagram illustrating a gaming system 1300 that contains multiple EGMs in which aspects of the present invention may be realized is depicted. Players 1320, operators and regulators (collectively illustrated in FIG. 13 as ‘player 1’) have personal mobile devices (PMD) 1314 that are used for various operations on the casino network 1318 and the EGMs 1302 (illustrated in FIG. 13 as 1302A-D). Specifically the PMDs 1314 allow the players 1320 to communicate with the EGM 1302 at which they are seated to access game or player account features. The players 1320 can also use their PMDs 1314 to access the network 1318 of the casino or the internet 1308, using, for example, the wireless access point 1312 for the internet connection 1310. The players 1320 may use the web browser on their device 1314 or applications installed on their device 1314 that access the networks 1318, 1308.

As illustrated in FIG. 13, the player 1320 is using EGM1 1302D that is at a bank of EGMs 1302. The player 1320 has a PMD 1314 that has wireless capabilities (such as 802.11 or Bluetooth) and can connect and communicate with the Wireless Access Point (WAP) 1312. In one embodiment, the WAP 1312 is a commodity, off the shelf device. In one embodiment, the player 1320 has a player tracking card or player account at the gaming venue. The server/host 1304 shown is part of the casino service based system and/or host system. In one embodiment, the activity of the personal mobile device 1314 is monitored by an activity monitory 1306 that is in communication with the server/host 1304. In one embodiment, the PMD 1314 may be directly paired with at least one of the EGMs 1302 using the pairing connection 1316. An ATM machine (as depicted in FIG. 5 530) may be included in the gaming system 1300 and the ATM machine (as depicted in FIG. 5 530) may be directly paired to the EGMs 1302 via the EGM gaming network 1318, the server/host 1304, and/or the personal mobile device 1314.

FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating a service screen window 1400 including a game screen for play on an electronic gaming machine (EGM) which aspects of the present invention may be realized. In one embodiment, the service window 1400, as described above, is an application on the EGM that allows the player to order drinks, buy show tickets, buy buffet ticket, and/or access the player's player account, and the like. The service window may be customized based on data that is sampled, harvested, and/or collected while using the EGM. The service window may offer the player various goods/services (e.g., shopping opportunities). In one embodiment, the service window 1400 may provide for ordering beverages, providing property information, shopping, ordering goods/services, bonus games options, my rewards section, comp balance option, a cash out option for using the financial transaction device, and the like.

FIG. 15 are a block diagrams illustrating an exemplary service screen application 1500 and an external application displaying various electronic gaming machines (EGMs) options on a personal mobile device (PMD) 1504 and/or an electronic gaming machine (EGM) 1506 for use with the financial transaction device in which aspects of the present invention may be realized. The player may use an application on the PMD 1504 (e.g., a mobile digital device, digital media extender, a smart phone, an electronic tablet, a player mobile device ‘PMD’, a computer, and the like) that also accesses the gaming network, and the EGM 1506 and provides opportunities for customization. For example, the player may be playing an online game with the PMD 1504 and/or playing the EGM 1506 using the PMD 1504. The host may identify this game traffic and customize the EGM 1506 to match the style of online game. Using the service window as described herein, various options are provided for buying drinks, ordering tickets for shows or buffets etc. In one embodiment, the service window application is displayed on the EGM 1504 and/or PMD 1504 showing a game on the right service screen window on the left side. In one embodiment, the service window displays “Thank You for Playing! Would you like to cash out from the EGM?” The service window application provides options for the player to select “YES” and/or “NO.” In one embodiment, the service window displays and asks the user “would you like to cash out your winnings/game credits from the EGM onto a ticket and/or players card for making a deposit into an ATM?” The service window application provides options for the player to select “YES” and/or “NO.” In one embodiment, the service window displays and asks the user “would you like to be able to purchase goods/services with your players card and/or cash out ticket?” The service window application provides options for the player to select “YES” and/or “NO.” In one embodiment, the financial transaction device may be the players card and/or the cash out ticket. It should be noted that the messages, menus, goods and services, may be customized and provided to the player.

FIG. 16 are block diagrams illustrating an alternative exemplary service screen application 1600 and an external application displaying various electronic gaming machines (EGMs) options on a personal mobile device (PMD) 1604 and/or an electronic gaming machine (EGM) 1602 for use with the financial transaction device in which aspects of the present invention may be realized. In one embodiment, the service window application is displayed on the EGM 1602 showing a game on the right service screen window on the left side and/or the service window application is displayed on the PMD 1604. In one embodiment, the service window displays “are you a new User?” The service window application provides options for the player to select “YES” and/or “NO.” In one embodiment, the service window displays and asks the user “would you like to be able to use a financial transaction device for depositing winnings/financial amounts into an ATM, perform additional cashless game wagering, and/or purchase goods/services?” The service window application provides options for the player to select “YES” and/or “NO.” In one embodiment, the service window displays and asks the user “please enter the following secured data/information: Name: (the player enters the name for example “John Doe”), date of birth: (the player enters for example “1/2/1960”), and Financial Acct data: (the player enters the a number displayed as an example as “XXXXXXX”). In one embodiment, the financial transaction device may be the players card and/or the cash out ticket. In one embodiment, the financial transaction device may be the players card and/or the cash out ticket. It should be noted that the messages, menus, goods and services, may be customized and provided to the player.

Therefore, based upon the embodiments describe herein, in one embodiment, the present invention provides various methods, systems, and computer program products for facilitating use of a financial transaction device in a cashless wagering system in a gaming system/venue. In one embodiment, by way of example only, the financial transaction device, has at least an account identifier linking the financial transaction device to at least one financial account of at least one financial institution associated with the gaming network, is provided (e.g., provided by an electronic gaming machine (EGM), a financial institution, and/or a gaming and/or non-gaming venue) for depositing the financial amount into at least one financial account, performing a cashless wagering operation in the EGM, and/or using the financial transaction device for payment of goods and services by gaming and non-gaming venues. Providing the financial card readies and/or allows the financial transaction device for use for depositing the financial amount into the at least one financial account, cashless wagering in the EGM, and/or payment of the goods and the services. The financial transaction device is used for depositing the financial amount into at least one financial account of the at least one financial institution associated with the gaming network by either the EGM and/or the ATM, performing a cashless wagering operation in the EGM, and/or purchasing the goods and services. The financial transaction device is at least one of a ticket-in/ticket-out (TITO) system, a pre-paid card device, a players club card, an identification card, a financial account deposit device, and the financial transaction device has at least one of a bar code, a magnetic strip, the financial amount, and the account identifier, and is provided by at least one of the EGM, the at least one financial institution, the gaming venue, and a non-gaming venue.

In one embodiment, the present invention loads and stores on the financial transaction device the financial amount of credit available for play on the EGM. The financial amount of the credit being a financial amount dynamically loaded onto the financial transaction device via the at least one financial institution, a credit determined by at least one of a plurality of outcomes of the EGM, and/or an amount inputted into the EGM. In one embodiment, the present invention recognizes and validates paper currency and coin currency for being the financial amount loaded and stored onto the financial card device. In one embodiment, the present invention retains a permanent storage record of the financial amount on the financial transaction device, reads the financial amount on the financial transaction device using one of the bar code, the magnetic strip, and the account identifier linking the financial transaction card to the at least one financial account of the financial institution, and represents the financial amount on the financial transaction device as the financial amount of the paper currency and the coin currency that is recognized and validated.

In one embodiment, the present invention uses the financial transaction device for depositing the financial amount into at least one financial account. In one embodiment, the present invention uses the financial transaction device for depositing the financial amount into at least one financial account of the at least one financial institution associated with the gaming network using the ATM. In one embodiment, the financial institution may be a non-gaming financial institution having an association with a gaming venue.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides a solution for depositing the financial amount into at least one financial account using the financial transaction device using the ATM upon performing a cashing out operation from the EGM.

In one embodiment, the present invention charges a fee associated with the use of the financial transaction card, and/or charges a fee associated with the use of the financial transaction card to be allocated based on a variety of allocation protocols between the financial institution and a gaming venue. In one embodiment, the present invention performs a cashless wagering operation using the financial transaction device in the EGM. In one embodiment, the present invention allows for purchasing the goods and services using the financial transaction device.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides a solution for reading the financial amount on the financial transaction card using a financial transaction device reader associated with one of the gaming network and a non-gaming network. In one embodiment, the present invention provides a solution for using a host in the gaming network for acting as a proxy for communicating between the financial transaction device and the financial institution associated with the ATM. In one embodiment, the present invention provides a solution for directly pairing the EGM and the ATM using a service based application system (see FIG. 4) in the gaming network. In one embodiment, the financial amount on the financial transaction device is dynamically deposited into the ATM and dynamically transferred using the service based application system into the at least one financial account via the ATM. In one embodiment, the service window application allows for dynamically depositing the financial amount on the financial transaction device from the EGM into the ATM. In one embodiment, the EGM provides a financial transaction device for depositing the financial amount on the financial transaction device into the ATM.

As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, aspects of the present invention may be embodied as a system, method or computer program product. Accordingly, aspects of the present invention may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment (including firmware, resident software, micro-code, etc.) or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects that may all generally be referred to herein as a “circuit,” “module” or “system.” Furthermore, aspects of the present invention may take the form of a computer program product embodied in one or more computer readable medium(s) having computer readable program code embodied thereon.

Any combination of one or more computer readable medium(s) may be utilized. The computer readable medium may be a computer readable signal medium or a computer readable storage medium. A computer readable storage medium may be, for example, but not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, or device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. More specific examples (a non-exhaustive list) of the computer readable storage medium would include the following: an electrical connection having one or more wires, a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), an optical fiber, a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. In the context of this document, a computer readable storage medium may be any tangible medium that may contain, or store a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

Program code embodied on a computer readable medium may be transmitted using any appropriate medium, including but not limited to wireless, wired, optical fiber cable, RF, etc., or any suitable combination of the foregoing. Computer program code for carrying out operations for aspects of the present invention may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including an object oriented programming language such as Java, Smalltalk, C++ or the like and conventional procedural programming languages, such as the “C” programming language or similar programming languages. The program code may execute entirely on the user's computer, partly on the user's computer, as a stand-alone software package, partly on the user's computer and partly on a remote computer or entirely on the remote computer or server. In the latter scenario, the remote computer may be connected to the user's computer through any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or the connection may be made to an external computer (for example, through the internet using an internet Service Provider).

Aspects of the present invention have been described above with reference to flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems) and computer program products according to embodiments of the invention. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, may be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be provided to a processor of a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.

These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer readable medium that may direct a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other devices to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer readable medium produce an article of manufacture including instructions which implement the function/act specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks. The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other devices to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer, other programmable apparatus or other devices to produce a computer implemented process such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide processes for implementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.

The flowchart and block diagrams in the above figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods and computer program products according to various embodiments of the present invention. In this regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagrams may represent a module, segment, or portion of code, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). It should also be noted that, in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the block may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession may, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. It will also be noted that each block of the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, may be implemented by special purpose hardware-based systems that perform the specified functions or acts, or combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A method for facilitating use of a financial transaction device of a cashless wagering system in a gaming system having at least one processor device, the method comprising: providing the financial transaction device, having at least an account identifier linking the financial transaction device to at least one financial account of at least one financial institution associated with the gaming network, for one of depositing a financial amount into the at least one financial account, cashless wagering in an electronic gaming machine (EGM), and use by a plurality of gaming and non-gaming venues for payment of goods and services, wherein providing the financial transaction device readies the financial transaction device for one of depositing the financial amount into the at least one financial account, cashless wagering in the EGM, and payment of the goods and the services; and using the financial transaction device for one of depositing the financial amount into the at least one financial account of the at least one financial institution associated with the gaming network by one of the EGM and an automated teller machine (ATM), cashless wagering in the EGM, and purchasing the goods and services.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the financial transaction device is at least one of a ticket-in/ticket-out (TITO) system, a pre-paid card device, a players club card, an identification card, a financial account deposit device, and the financial transaction device has at least one of a bar code, a magnetic strip, the financial amount, and the account identifier, and is provided by at least one of the EGM, the at least one financial institution, the gaming venue, and a non-gaming venue.
 3. The method of claim 2, further including performing one of: loading and storing on the financial transaction device the financial amount of credit available for play on the EGM, wherein the financial amount of the credit being one of a financial amount dynamically loaded onto the financial transaction device via the at least one financial institution, a credit determined by at least one of a plurality of outcomes of the EGM, an amount inputted into the EGM, recognizing and validating one of paper currency and coin currency for being the financial amount loaded and stored onto the financial card device, retaining a permanent storage record of the financial amount on the financial transaction device, reading the financial amount on the financial transaction device using one of the bar code, the magnetic strip, and the account identifier linking the financial transaction card to the at least one financial account of the financial institution, and representing the financial amount on the financial transaction device as the financial amount of the paper currency and the coin currency that is recognized and validated.
 4. The method of claim 3, further including using the financial transaction device for depositing the financial amount into the at least one financial account.
 5. The method of claim 4, further including using the financial transaction device for depositing the financial amount into at least one financial account of the at least one financial institution associated with the gaming network using the ATM, wherein the at least one financial institution is a non-gaming financial institution having an association with a gaming venue.
 6. The method of claim 4, further including depositing the financial amount into the at least one financial account using the financial transaction device using the ATM upon performing a cashing out operation from the EGM.
 7. The method of claim 1, further including performing at least one of: charging a fee associated with the use of the financial transaction card, and charging the fee associated with the use of the financial transaction card to be allocated based on a plurality of allocation protocols between the at least one financial institution and a gaming venue.
 8. The method of claim 1, further including performing a cashless wagering operation using the financial transaction device in the EGM.
 9. The method of claim 1, further including purchasing the goods and services using the financial transaction device.
 10. The method of claim 1, further including reading the financial amount on the financial transaction card using a financial transaction device reader associated with one of the gaming network and a non-gaming network.
 11. The method of claim 1, further including using a host in the gaming network for one of acting as a proxy for communicating between the financial transaction device and the at least one financial institution associated with the ATM.
 12. The method of claim 1, further including directly pairing the EGM and the ATM using a service based application system in the gaming network.
 13. The method of claim 12, further including dynamically transferring the financial amount on the financial transaction device using the service based application system into the at least one financial account via the ATM.
 14. A system for facilitating use of a financial transaction device of a cashless wagering system in a gaming system, the system comprising: a gaming network; a host in the gaming network; an electronic gaming machine (EGM) in the gaming network in communication with the host; at least one master controller in communication with the EGM and the host; a financial transaction device; at least one financial institution in communication with the financial transaction device; an automated teller machine (ATM) in communication with at least one of the gaming network, the at least one financial institution, and the financial transaction device; a plurality of gaming and non-gaming venues in communication with the financial transaction device; and at least one processor device, in communication with the at least one master controller, operable on the EGM and the ATM, wherein the at least one processor device: provides the financial transaction device, having at least an account identifier linking the financial transaction device to at least one financial account of the at least one financial institution associated with the gaming network, for one of depositing a financial amount into the at least one financial account, cashless wagering in the EGM, and use by a plurality of gaming and non-gaming venues for payment of goods and services, wherein providing the financial transaction device readies the financial transaction device for one of depositing the financial amount into the at least one financial account, cashless wagering in the EGM, and payment of the goods and the services, and uses the financial transaction device for one of depositing the financial amount into the at least one financial account of the at least one financial institution associated with the gaming network by one of the EGM and the ATM, cashless wagering in the EGM, and purchasing the goods and services.
 15. The system of claim 14, wherein the financial transaction device is at least one of a ticket-in/ticket-out (TITO) system, a pre-paid card device, a players club card, an identification card, a financial account deposit device, and the financial transaction device has at least one of a bar code, a magnetic strip, the financial amount, and the account identifier, and is provided by at least one of the EGM, the at least one financial institution, the gaming venue, and a non-gaming venue.
 16. The system of claim 15, wherein the at least one processor device performs one of: loading and storing on the financial transaction device the financial amount of credit available for play on the EGM, wherein the financial amount of the credit being one of a financial amount dynamically loaded onto the financial transaction device via the at least one financial institution, a credit determined by at least one of a plurality of outcomes of the EGM, an amount inputted into the EGM, recognizing and validating one of paper currency and coin currency for being the financial amount loaded and stored onto the financial card device, retaining a permanent storage record of the financial amount on the financial transaction device, reading the financial amount on the financial transaction device using one of the bar code, the magnetic strip, and the account identifier linking the financial transaction card to the at least one financial account of the financial institution, and representing the financial amount on the financial transaction device as the financial amount of the paper currency and the coin currency that is recognized and validated.
 17. The system of claim 16, wherein the at least one processor device uses the financial transaction device for depositing the financial amount into the at least one financial account.
 18. The system of claim 17, wherein the at least one processor device uses the financial transaction device for depositing the financial amount into at least one financial account of the at least one financial institution associated with the gaming network using the ATM, wherein the at least one financial institution is a non-gaming financial institution having an association with a gaming venue.
 19. The system of claim 17, wherein the at least one processor device deposits the financial amount into the at least one financial account using the financial transaction device using the ATM upon performing a cashing out operation from the EGM.
 20. The system of claim 14, wherein the at least one processor device performs at least one of: charging a fee associated with the use of the financial transaction card, and charging the fee associated with the use of the financial transaction card to be allocated based on a plurality of allocation protocols between the at least one financial institution and a gaming venue.
 21. The system of claim 14, wherein the at least one processor device performs a cashless wagering operation using the financial transaction device in the EGM.
 22. The system of claim 14, wherein the at least one processor device purchases the goods and services using the financial transaction device.
 23. The system of claim 14, wherein the at least one processor device readies the financial amount on the financial transaction card using a financial transaction device reader associated with one of the gaming network and a non-gaming network.
 24. The system of claim 14, wherein the at least one processor device uses a host in the gaming network for one of acting as a proxy for communicating between the financial transaction device and the at least one financial institution associated with the ATM.
 25. The system of claim 14, wherein the at least one processor device directly pairs the EGM and the ATM using a service based application system in the gaming network.
 26. The system of claim 25, wherein the at least one processor device dynamically transfers the financial amount on the financial transaction device using the service based application system into the at least one financial account via the ATM.
 27. A computer program product for facilitating use of a financial transaction device of a cashless wagering system in a gaming system with at least one processor device, the computer program product comprising a computer-readable storage medium having computer-readable program code portions stored therein, the computer-readable program code portions comprising: a first executable portion that provides the financial transaction device, having at least an account identifier linking the financial transaction device to at least one financial account of at least one financial institution associated with the gaming network, for one of depositing a financial amount into the at least one financial account, cashless wagering in an electronic gaming machine (EGM), and use by a plurality of gaming and non-gaming venues for payment of goods and services, wherein providing the financial transaction device readies the financial transaction device for one of depositing the financial amount into the at least one financial account, cashless wagering in the EGM, and payment of the goods and the services; and a second executable portion that uses the financial transaction device for one of depositing the financial amount into the at least one financial account of the at least one financial institution associated with the gaming network by one of the EGM and an automated teller machine (ATM), cashless wagering in the EGM, and purchasing the goods and services.
 28. The computer program product of claim 27, wherein the financial transaction device is at least one of a ticket-in/ticket-out (TITO) system, a pre-paid card device, a players club card, an identification card, a financial account deposit device, and the financial transaction device has at least one of a bar code, a magnetic strip, the financial amount, and the account identifier, and is provided by at least one of the EGM, the at least one financial institution, the gaming venue, and a non-gaming venue.
 29. The computer program product of claim 28, further including a third executable portion that performs one of: loading and storing on the financial transaction device the financial amount of credit available for play on the EGM, wherein the financial amount of the credit being one of a financial amount dynamically loaded onto the financial transaction device via the at least one financial institution, a credit determined by at least one of a plurality of outcomes of the EGM, an amount inputted into the EGM, recognizing and validating one of paper currency and coin currency for being the financial amount loaded and stored onto the financial card device, retaining a permanent storage record of the financial amount on the financial transaction device, reading the financial amount on the financial transaction device using one of the bar code, the magnetic strip, and the account identifier linking the financial transaction card to the at least one financial account of the financial institution, and representing the financial amount on the financial transaction device as the financial amount of the paper currency and the coin currency that is recognized and validated.
 30. The computer program product of claim 29, further including a fourth executable portion that uses the financial transaction device for depositing the financial amount into the at least one financial account.
 31. The computer program product of claim 30, further including a fifth executable portion that uses the financial transaction device for depositing the financial amount into at least one financial account of the at least one financial institution associated with the gaming network using the ATM, wherein the at least one financial institution is a non-gaming financial institution having an association with a gaming venue.
 32. The computer program product of claim 30, further including a fifth executable portion that deposits the financial amount into the at least one financial account using the financial transaction device using the ATM upon performing a cashing out operation from the EGM.
 33. The computer program product of claim 27, further including a third executable portion that performs at least one of: charging a fee associated with the use of the financial transaction card, and charging the fee associated with the use of the financial transaction card to be allocated based on a plurality of allocation protocols between the at least one financial institution and a gaming venue.
 34. The computer program product of claim 27, further including a third executable portion that performs a cashless wagering operation using the financial transaction device in the EGM.
 35. The computer program product of claim 27, further including a third executable portion that purchases the goods and services using the financial transaction device.
 36. The computer program product of claim 27, further including a third executable portion that reads the financial amount on the financial transaction card using a financial transaction device reader associated with one of the gaming network and a non-gaming network.
 37. The computer program product of claim 27, further including a third executable portion that uses a host in the gaming network for one of acting as a proxy for communicating between the financial transaction device and the at least one financial institution associated with the ATM.
 38. The computer program product of claim 27, further including a third executable portion that directly pairs the EGM and the ATM using a service based application system in the gaming network.
 39. The computer program product of claim 27, further including a third executable portion that dynamically transfers the financial amount on the financial transaction device using the service based application system into the at least one financial account via the ATM. 